Until now, equality between women and men in mathematics within German academia has not been achieved. Although the proportion of women has been at parity among first-year students for years, it declines steadily with each academic career level. Female mathematicians remain underrepresented in top academic and scientific positions, with the “leaky pipeline” effect still prevalent in this field.

What are the causes and mechanisms that may contribute to the reproduction of gender disparities in mathematics? How do scientists in leadership positions play a role as gatekeepers in creating career barriers for female PhD students and postdocs? These questions have been explored through a sociological research project within a mathematical Cluster of Excellence, focusing on access to a top-tier research environment at different career stages and career decisions of early-career scientists at key transition points.

In this online talk, Anna Ransiek will present selected project findings, drawing on a wide range of semi-structured interviews with gatekeepers. She will highlight mindsets and behaviours that may ultimately impact women’s scientific careers, providing insights relevant beyond the Cluster of Excellence for addressing gender disparities in academia.

Please register with metis-online@hu-berlin.de until 27 November 2024.
A Zoom link will be provided after registration.