Gender Equality and Its Significance for Scientific Research and Innovation Organisations: A Case Study

Abstract

It is partly thanks to the European Commission and the ERA Strategy for Gender Equality that the path to gender equality has been facilitated, and that European research organisations have been encouraged to implement Gender Equality Plans (GEPs). The Italian Institute of Technology (IIT) is an exceptional example of the implementation of gender equality and gender mainstreaming in an Italian organisation dedicated to promoting quality in innovation and knowledge transfer in the STEM fields, where excellence is one of the fundamental elements and researchers from over 70 different nationalities work. This article aims to analyse the first experiences of the IIT in the field of gender equality, diversity, and inclusion. Using concrete examples and the secondary data collection method, we analysed the initial results and outcomes of the implementation of a GEP at the institutional level, taking into account persistent challenges and resistance. According to the findings presented here, gender gaps can still be observed, for example, in patent protection, start‐up creation, publication rates, and other areas. Its innovative character lies in the fact that it presents an analysis within a research institute that is not an academic institution and has no previous background or experience in gender policy. We will conclude and present further actions to improve and strengthen the impact of this GEP at a cultural and institutional level.