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Research Analysis & Policy

Editor’s Picks: Understanding the Gender Imbalance in STEM Fields

Curated Collections

Increasing numbers of women are entering science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) disciplines at undergraduate and graduate levels. However, women remain underrepresented at higher academic ranks and in the peer-review process and exhibit higher rates of attrition from STEM degrees and careers. This suggests the existence of a “leaky pipeline” which could be partly explained by gender bias in editorial board recruitment, hiring and promotion decisions, and research evaluation. The articles in this collection consider factors associated with the inclusion and success of women in STEM fields and propose ways to reduce the gender gap.

Image Credit: https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0197280

Academic training, Performance and Evaluation
Career Path and Progression
Authorship, Collaboration and Productivity
Representation in Society Leadership and on Editorial Boards
Increased diversity and inclusion: necessary elements to ensure peer review quality

PLOS ONE are celebrating Peer Review Week around the theme ‘Diversity and Inclusion’ by tackling a broad and very topical subject: how can we bring further gender balance into the review process?

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