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Abstract
This study examines job embeddedness within Indian higher education through three dimensions: links, fit, and sacrifice. Links encompass relationships with colleagues and community, creating a sense of belonging vital to faculty satisfaction. Fit represents the alignment between personal values and institutional goals, while sacrifice refers to the perceived costs of leaving, such as tenure or research continuity. The study also explores gender differences, noting that female faculty often emphasize flexible work options and support systems, which influence their embeddedness uniquely. Using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM), the findings suggest that fostering fit, professional networks, and institutional flexibility are essential to reducing turnover. This research supports holistic retention strategies that recognize diverse needs, facilitating an academic environment where faculty feel genuinely embedded.