The canvas ceiling in neoliberal academia: experiences of Syrian women from refugee backgrounds seeking to establish academic careers

Purpose This paper aims to explore the lived experiences of Syrian women from refugee backgrounds seeking to establish academic careers, whilst navigating the dual pressures of displacement and gendered inequities in neoliberal higher education institutions (HEIs). In light of recent geopolitical events, this research highlights the compounded challenges they face within market-driven academic environments. Design/methodology/approach This study uses a situated intersectional lens to analyse rich life story accounts from four Syrian women from refugee backgrounds living in the North East of England and seeking to establish academic careers. The intersection of gender, refugee experiences and other social positions is explored within the context of neoliberal HEIs, emphasising the dynamic and contextualised nature of these experiences. Findings The findings show that Syrian women from refugee background seeking to establish an academic career, often face precarious employment, limited professional mobility and are frequently seen through a humanitarian lens, which overlooks long-term career prospects. This research highlights how these individuals strive to fulfil their academic aspirations amidst these constraints. The study extends the concept of the “canvas ceiling,” revealing how the intersection of gender and refugee status intensifies the challenges of balancing personal and academic life in a neoliberal context. Originality/value This research contributes to discussions about gender, neoliberalism and inclusion in academia by offering a nuanced understanding of the specific barriers faced when establishing an academic career for women from a refugee background. It goes beyond simplistic categorisations of refugees to explore the dynamic intersections of identity and structural barriers within academic institutions.