What Women Want: Lessons Learned from Grant Applications.

Area of Science:

• Higher Education
• Gender Studies
• Sociology of Science

Background:

• Universities aim to increase diversity and retain talent.
• The 'leaky pipeline' phenomenon disproportionately affects women in academia.
• Mothers face unique challenges that contribute to attrition from academic careers.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze trends in grant applications to the Academic Mama Foundation over six years.
• To identify structural and systemic support needs for mothers pursuing academic careers.
• To inform strategies for improving retention of women, particularly mothers, in academia.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative analysis of grant applications submitted to the Academic Mama Foundation from 2018-2024.
• Identification of recurring themes and challenges reported by mother academics.
• Trend analysis to pinpoint areas requiring institutional and systemic intervention.

Main Results:

• Key trends indicate financial constraints and lack of flexible work arrangements as major barriers.
• Applications highlight the need for improved childcare support and mentorship for mothers.
• Data reveals a consistent pattern of challenges faced by mothers across different academic disciplines.

Conclusions:

• The Academic Mama Foundation's grant data provides valuable insights into systemic barriers for mothers in academia.
• Targeted structural and systemic support is crucial for retaining mothers in academic pathways.
• Addressing these identified needs can contribute to greater gender diversity and equity in higher education.