Research Summary

The study aims to fill gaps in understanding the status and experiences of women scientists in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) in Ukraine amidst a deep crisis in the scientific system caused by chronic underfunding, weak state support, and a lack of awareness about the role of science among segments of society.

The inclusion of women in STEM makes science more inclusive, has a positive impact on the economy, and fosters the development of new technologies and innovations. However, the uneven representation of women across scientific fields and their underrepresentation in leadership positions highlight the need for targeted policies to support and empower women scientists in STEM.

The goal of the study was to identify the factors that motivate female students and researchers in STEM to pursue or leave academic careers. To this end, the researchers conducted in-depth interviews, focus group discussions, and surveys with women at various stages of their STEM careers. This approach provided a comprehensive view of how women chose their field of study, selected their universities, their satisfaction with education, working conditions, relationships with colleagues and supervisors, and the factors that either motivated them to stay in STEM or pushed them to leave the field.

In addition, a series of expert interviews was conducted with representatives from government agencies, the business sector, universities, research institutions, NGOs, and the media. These interviews helped capture stakeholders’ perspectives on the systemic challenges faced by women in STEM and potential strategies to overcome them. Based on these insights, practical recommendations were developed for stakeholders across different sectors to improve the experience of women scientists in STEM.

Key Findings

For many participants, an interest in science emerged during school or adolescence, influenced by family, teachers, and access to quality education. However, the lack of career guidance programs often complicated the choice of specialization, and some respondents reported making this decision almost
randomly. Higher education played a pivotal role in reinforcing interest in academic careers through exposure to a positive research environment, role models among professors, and opportunities to engage in scientific research.

Working conditions in science remain a significant challenge for most women researchers. Inadequate funding, outdated equipment, a shortage of materials, and even basic infrastructure issues—such as lack of heating—substantially limited research opportunities. The full-scale Russian invasion further exacerbated existing problems, causing power outages, infrastructure damage, and increased workloads due to staff shortages. Moreover, due to low salaries, many women scientists were forced to take on multiple jobs or side projects, resulting in excessive workloads.

Among the factors that support motivation to remain in science, respondents highlighted autonomy at work, a positive psychological environment, stable professional networks, and peer support within teams. Conversely, low pay, overwork, poor infrastructure, and toxic workplace dynamics significantly reduced
motivation and often led to doubts or decisions to leave academia.

Barriers faced by women scientists also include gender discrimination and sexism, manifested in sexist remarks, biased task distribution, and instances of sexual harassment. Another key challenge is balancing motherhood and an academic career, which often limits professional opportunities due to working conditions and persistent social stereotypes.

The study was conducted by the analytical center Cedos and the INSCIENCE organization, as part of the “WOMEN IN SCIENCE” project in the framework of the “EU 4 Gender Equality: Together against gender stereotypes and gender-based violence” programme (phase 2), funded by the European Union, implemented jointly by UN Women and UNFPA.

This study was conducted with the financial support of the European Union. Its content is the sole responsibility of UN Women and do not necessarily reflect the views of the European Union.

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