Discussion

This report outlines the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on graduate research students. It was conducted rapidly, and further research is needed to inform a more thorough support package. However, the findings point to disruptions to research design for more than 50% of GR students, while 70% are struggling to complete other research work due to mental health impacts. Many GR students hold concern for people in their community and family who have lost jobs or who are at high risk of being impacted by COVID19.

We already know that graduate researchers face poor mental health and high levels of psychological distress [2,3]. This is being exacerbated by the international health and economic crises associated with COVID-19. Students are not only dealing with detrimental impacts to their research, but to the rest of their lives as well. This is made clear when we consider graduate researchers not just as individuals but as members of families, communities and workplaces.

Participants expressed fear for their family members and friends who had lost work, and for loved ones separated from them by land or sea. This fear and anxiety permeates through the lives of graduate research students, making the deep critical thinking at the core of research near impossible for many at this time. It is well established that trauma and distress impact cognitive functioning [4].

“The research doesn't feel as important anymore. I feel like it will be insensitive to ask people to participate in my study.”

International students, students with family or caring responsibilities and students with health conditions are in a situation of increased stress and anxiety. Though, it must also be said that there are many students who noted fear for what the future will bring, especially regarding their work, housing and health.

Any response from universities to graduate students at this time should reflect the stark realities that this report has exposed. Empathy and compassion should be at the core of the university's response to graduate students at this time. Anything less risks compounding the multiple stressors students are already facing during this time. However, beyond an empathetic response, tangible supports are required in both the short and long-term to ensure that graduate researchers can both devote appropriate time to their research and address the myriad concerns requiring their attention for the duration of the pandemic. These are covered in the following chapter.