Women in Science and Engineering: Network Access, Participation, and Career Outcomes

University Of Illinois At Chicago, Chicago IL

Investigators

Abstract

The project proposes a study that examines how social and professional networks mediate the conversion of women's qualifications to career outcomes and specifically addresses how and why do networks matter for women's career outcomes in science and engineering. The study proposes a two-phase approach: (1) conduct a baseline national survey of scientists and engineers in six STEP fields; (2) conduct a network analysis of "critical mentors" aimed at uncovering the networks that emerge around key faculty. The two-stage design will provide detailed multi-level quantitative data for statistically modeling and rich qualitative evidence that enhance the quantitative analysis.