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Synergies and Gaps in Support for Technical Career Development in UK Higher Education and Research: A Semi-Quantitative Analysis of ‘Technician Commitment’ Action Plans and Progress Reports using Natural Language Processing

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  • Jackson, Samuel

Abstract

This study analyses Technician Commitment action plans from UK higher education institutions to address persistent technical talent demand in research. Using natural language processing with Google Gemini, 3558 action items from 104 plans were categorised into 26 key themes. The most common focus areas were "Ongoing Visibility and Communication", "Networking and Presenting" and "Career Pathways and Progression", whilst "Wellbeing and Mental Health", "Environmental Sustainability" and "Equipment Sharing" received minimal attention. Comparison with the TALENT Policy Commission's recommendations revealed strong alignment on improving visibility and diversifying entry routes, but significant gaps in technical staff's policy involvement and strategic workforce planning. Notably, institutions rarely cited external resources from professional bodies, suggesting underutilisation of available support. The study proposes developing a 'Skills Portfolio' methodology with a standardised 'living skills ontology' to provide verifiable mechanisms for demonstrating technical expertise. These findings highlight the need for more prescriptive national guidance and targeted outreach to foster comprehensive technical workforce development.

Suggested Citation

  • Jackson, Samuel, 2026. "Synergies and Gaps in Support for Technical Career Development in UK Higher Education and Research: A Semi-Quantitative Analysis of ‘Technician Commitment’ Action Plans and Progress Reports using Natural Language Processing," SocArXiv 8tmn5_v1, Center for Open Science.
    • Handle: RePEc:osf:socarx:8tmn5_v1
    DOI: 10.31219/osf.io/8tmn5_v1
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