Research project informs Pathway to Diversity in STEM Review

The Office of the Women in STEM Ambassador is undertaking a research project to support the Commonwealth Government’s Diversity in STEM review, following a request from the Minister for Industry, Science, and Resources. The project aims to examine the effectiveness of initiatives supporting the retention and progression of women in STEM careers. This research will provide crucial insights into what works and what doesn’t, informing the development of interventions to address existing inequities and improve diversity within the STEM workforce.

The Pathway to Diversity Review will provide recommendations to the Australian Government on how to support access and inclusivity within STEM education, careers, and industries. An independent expert panel has been selected to present its findings and recommendations to the government. Key activities being undertaken to support the review include the research project led by Australia’s Women in STEM Ambassador, an evaluation of the department’s women in STEM programs, and engagement with a diverse range of stakeholders and the Australian public.

We have split this research project into two streams. The first focuses on women and other underrepresented groups. The second examines systemic and cultural barriers to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander engagement in STEM jobs, which is being led by Associate Professor Marnee Shay and her team at the University of Queensland. More details about this project will be shared soon.

In March this year, Dr Jessica Bergman joined the team as a research associate and is leading the systematic review and analysis of initiatives implemented at the workforce level to promote gender equity in STEM.

“The Pathway to Diversity in STEM Review is an important step towards creating a more inclusive and diverse STEM community,” says Bergman. “By examining and evaluating the effectiveness of various initiatives, we can identify evidence-based strategies that will support the retention and progression of women in STEM careers.”

The comprehensive research being conducted by Dr Bergman and her team of four researchers will encompass multiple strands, each addressing different aspects of gender equity within the STEM field. The first strand focuses on evaluating initiatives that can be implemented at the workforce level to promote gender equity. By reviewing and analysing empirical studies, the team aims to identify initiatives that have been proven effective in addressing gender inequities and overcoming barriers faced by women in STEM careers.

“Through our systematic review, we will shed light on the initiatives that have shown promise in advancing gender equity in STEM,” explains Bergman. “By identifying and understanding what works, we can guide the development of targeted interventions that will foster a more diverse and inclusive STEM workforce. This research has the potential to make a significant impact on the future of STEM.”

The findings from this systematic review will provide the Pathway to Diversity in STEM review panel with evidence-based recommendations to inform future strategies and initiatives that have been proven effective in supporting the retention and progression of women in STEM careers. The ultimate objective is to create a more inclusive and diverse STEM community that represents the talents and capabilities of all individuals.

As Bergman concludes, “We have an opportunity to shape the future of STEM by addressing gender inequities head-on. By leveraging the power of research and evidence, we can forge a path towards a more diverse and inclusive STEM community that truly represents the talents and capabilities of all individuals.”