Several barriers can impede career progression in epidemiology:
1. Limited Opportunities: There are often fewer senior positions available in the field, leading to a bottleneck effect. 2. Funding Constraints: Many epidemiological projects rely on grant funding, which can be unpredictable and limit long-term career prospects. 3. Lack of Mentorship: The absence of effective mentorship programs can hinder the professional development of early-career epidemiologists. 4. Gender and Diversity Issues: Women and underrepresented minorities may face additional challenges in career advancement due to systemic biases and lack of support.
