Gender Dimension in Research: Bridging Gender and Science

The European Commission (EC) has become a global leader in setting policy for integrating the gender dimension into research and innovation (R&I) content. It is a priority for ERA and, for Horizon Europe, an award criterion that becomes a requirement by default. Thus, after the impetus that the Gender Equality Plans (GEPs) have given to advancing gender equality, integrating the sex and gender dimension in research is now an unavoidable step for RPOs. A large body of literature has highlighted that ignoring sex/gender as key variables in R&I leads to incomplete and flawed results that perpetuate significant gender biases and gaps in knowledge. In parallel, there is strong evidence that integrating sex/gender analysis enhances the quality and impact of scientific results and adds value in terms of excellence and social relevance. However, sex/gender dimensions are still absent from several STEM research. There are at least two main constraints to their incorporation: the limited knowledge of gender issues among researchers, compounded by the shortage of gender experts in many Research Performing Organizations (RPOs), and the lack of adequate tools to support and streamline this process. Following EC guidelines, the Institut de Ciències del Mar (ICM) integrated into its GEP a measure aimed at promoting the inclusion of sex/gender dimension in research as a factor for improving quality. In this framework, we have developed a toolkit to provide practical tools for researchers, covering all phases of the research cycle (from formulating research questions to dissemination) and different research scenarios: research that deals with biological material (animals, cell cultures, etc.), research in which there are differentiated relationships between women and men with the research topic, or basic science research. The toolkit double approach aims to assist researchers in integrating sex/gender analysis into research content while improving equal opportunities for women and men in research teams. The toolkit also proposes indicators that both guide actions and allow the subsequent measurement of achievements. The toolkit has been designed considering previous experiences and best practices from different EU-driven projects and initiatives. ICM wants to share its experience in producing and implementing this toolkit.