Publications
Global Call to Action for Mothers in Science: Action Plan for Funding Agencies
by Isabel Torres, Nikkita Collins, Diane Ugwu, Annaelle Hertz
We have created an action plan outlining a set of specific and actionable strategies to promote inclusion of caregivers and close the gender gap in research funding. We urge research funders worldwide to begin taking meaningful action and use this action plan as guidance to improve their practices and to cultivate a culture of fairness and inclusion more broadly in the STEMM sector.
Policy Proposals to Promote Inclusion of Caregivers in the Research Funding System: a Call for Change
by Isabel L. Torres, Rayven-Nikkita Collins, Anaelle Hertz and Martta Liukkonen
In this preprint, we review the literature revealing a deeply flawed research funding system riddled by inequitable policies, biased evaluations, and a lack of transparency and accountability, which disproportionately affects women with caregiving responsibilities. In addition, we propose and discuss specific and actionable policies to promote inclusion of caregivers and close the gender gap in research funding.
COVID Has Laid Bare the Inequities That Face Mothers in STEM
by Isabel Torres, Ryan Watkins, Martta Lieukkonen and Mei Lin Neo
In this opinion piece, we discuss how the COVID-19 pandemic magnified longstanding systemic barriers that silently push mothers away from their STEMM career paths. To repair these inequalities and close the gender gap in STEMM, we need to normalize caregiving and promote equitable family-friendly policies.
Is The Maternal Wall Causing a Critical Leak in the STEM Pipeline?
by Isabel Torres
Despite continued efforts to increase women’s representation in the STEM sector, gender differences in career progression remain mostly unchanged. Our co-founder wrote an opinion piece disclosing the evidence showing that STEM academia discriminates against caregivers, and mothers are particularly affected. These systemic barriers are a critical contributing factor to the exit of women from the STEM workforce.
