ABSTRACT
The permutation approach for ranking multivariate populations can be quite useful in the framework of customer satisfaction evaluation because many times these kinds of studies are denoted by a multivariate ordered categorical response for which the traditional inferential parametric approach lacks effective tools. The application of several nonparametric statistical methods, such as Nonparametric Combination tests, extreme profile ranking and multivariate ranking methods allows to gain insights into which kinds of possible differences in job satisfaction occur among different doctorate areas. Set up in Italy in 1980, research doctorates (PhD) represent the third level of university education and constitute a strategic resource in the university for the provision of high standards of education and scientific research methods. The postdoc survey at the University of Ferrara involved a representative sample of 120 PhD holders, selected from the four cohorts of 288 postdocs who earned the degree from 2001 to 2004.
