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Gender differences in research grant applications for pediatric residents
Mary Beth Gordon1, Stavroula K Osganian, S Jean Emans
1Division of General Pediatrics, Department of Medicine, Children's Hospital Boston, Harvard Medical School, Boston 02115, USA. marybeth.gordon@childrens.harvard.edu
Pediatrics
|July 8, 2009
Summary
Gender disparities in pediatric residency research grants mirror faculty trends. While funding success rates were similar, men received higher awards, partly due to advanced degrees. Women had lower grant scores, even after controlling for degree status.
Area of Science:
- Medical Education
- Research Funding
- Pediatric Residency
Background:
- Studies indicate gender disparities in faculty research grant applications and funding.
- It is unknown if similar patterns exist at the resident level.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate gender differences in research grant applications and funding outcomes among pediatric residents.
- To explore potential explanations for observed gender differences.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of internal mentored research grant fund applications (2003-2008) at a large academic pediatric residency program.
- Analysis of application characteristics and funding outcomes by gender.
- Identification of significant predictors of successful funding.
Main Results:
- Men were more likely to hold advanced research degrees and requested more funding.
- Funding success rates did not differ by gender, but men received higher awards.
- Advanced degree was a predictor of success; however, women still had lower grant scores after controlling for this factor.
Conclusions:
- Gender disparities in research grant applications and funding exist among pediatric residents, similar to faculty.
- The correlation between male gender and advanced research degrees partially explains these differences.
- Further investigation is needed to address gender-based disparities in grant scoring and outcomes.
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