This paper presents a first attempt to operationalize the Global Traits, Experiences, Cognitions and Context (GTEC) framework proposed by Welch et al. (2018). This theoretical framework suggests... Show moreThis paper presents a first attempt to operationalize the Global Traits, Experiences, Cognitions and Context (GTEC) framework proposed by Welch et al. (2018). This theoretical framework suggests four dimensions to characterize and contextualize the scientific workforce based on: 1) traits and experience, 2) cognitions, 3) community and, 4) institutional context. We apply the GTEC Framework using different data sources to note the improvement in measurement from using multiple dimensions. We use a well-regarded survey funded by the National Science Foundation and supplement it with additional variables from three other sources. The purpose is twofold. On the one hand, we build on the GTEC framework as a means to show how it could be applied to future empirical analyses. On the other hand, it emphasizes current data gaps that could still hamper our understanding on this phenomenon. While the model developed here moves us past a dichotomous understanding of foreign-born or mobile, it still leaves room for improvement to fully understand the global scientist. Show less
