This special issue addresses the development and socialization of academics at the early stages of their careers. Through the contributed papers, the reader has the chance to reflect on a multiplicity of aspects affecting entrance into the academic profession: from strategies and methods for introducing academics to institutional values and dynamics, training in the first phases of academic development and agents involved in this process, to the obstacles and challenges socialization implies. The wide variety of topics addressed in this issue demonstrates that the academic profession is complex and that socialization represents an important step in academics' professional life.