Moving Up. Career planning for female scientists

The under-rMoving Up- afb. 1 (2)epresentation of women in the higher levels of academia is caused by various factors. Historical, cultural and socio-psychological factors all play a role, but women are also able to exert influence on their career opportunities through the choices they make. Compared with men they are on average less inclined to take on challenging but risky tasks. As a consequence they run less risk of failure but also have less opportunity to shine. They often do not fend as well for themselves in negotiations as men do, they are less desirous of the spotlight and, again on average, have less self-confidence. These are not properties that make women less qualified than men for academic careers, but they do cause others to recognise their achievements less quickly and to reward their efforts less expediently. For some female academics it can be important to gain more insight into these processes and to develop the required skills to move up in academia. Moreover, it is crucial that women learn to deal efficiently with the causes that lie outside of their direct sphere of influence, such as gender stereotyping and a masculine organisation culture.

Therefore the objectives of this training course are to:

  • Develop insight into behaviour that is relevant to an academic career.
  • Increase awareness of one’s own qualities and competencies.
  • Develop new competencies.
  • Formulate concrete goals for the own scientific career.
  • Build up self-confidence.

This programme is intended for female postdocs, asssitent-, associate and full professors. Maximum of twelve participants.