Research Impact as Part of Academic Identity: Homo Academicus Impactus

This chapter explores the theoretical foundations of academic identity and its intersection with research impact. The chapter utilises Pierre Bourdieu’s concepts of field, habitus, and prestige to analyse how academics engage with the idea of impact and why it often encounters resistance within the academic community. It argues that impact, when seen as an external imposition by policymakers or institutional leaders, is often rejected by academics because it does not align with their intrinsic motivations or established academic identity. Instead, those academics who naturally incorporate impact into their work do so because they see it as a core part of their academic practice, driven by personal conviction and the desire to make a meaningful difference in their fields and beyond. Reflecting on interviews with impactful academics, the chapter reveals that these individuals engage in impactful research because they find it valuable, enjoyable, and aligned with their academic values. The chapter concludes by advocating for a shift in how research impact is perceived and integrated into academic life. By aligning impact with the core values of scholarship and intellectual inquiry, institutions can foster a more engaged and impactful academic community that contributes positively to societal needs.