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Gender disparities in research fields in Russia: dissertation authors and their mentors

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  • Elena Chechik

    (European University at St. Petersburg)

Abstract

This study examines gender disparities in research fields as measured by scientific output in dissertations at two levels within the Russian academic system: PhD and the more advanced Doctor of Science (DS). The data for this study were extracted from over 250,000 dissertations spanning from 2005 to 2016. The chosen data source offers several advantages over bibliometric data for the purpose of this study: (a) it provides representative data, including the Social Sciences and Humanities and STEM fields; (b) gender disambiguation is straightforward due to the gendered nature of Russian patronyms; (c) it allows for easier attribution of text, as there is no need to attribute it to the first author in multi-authored publications; (d) it provides insights into the career stage by differentiating between PhD and DS authors, as well as between PhD and DS mentors. The results of this study reveal a gender imbalance across research fields and academic career levels. Furthermore, our observations indicate that male mentors more frequently collaborate with male authors, and female mentors with female authors, exceeding what would be expected by random chance. This gender homophily is evident in most research fields. While the results largely confirm findings from studies conducted in other countries, the four advantages mentioned above make this study an essential extension of studies based on bibliometric data. This research sheds light on the gender structure within research fields in Russia and invites nuanced discussions about achieving gender equality in the context of identified gender homophily.

Suggested Citation

  • Elena Chechik, 2024. "Gender disparities in research fields in Russia: dissertation authors and their mentors," Scientometrics, Springer;Akadémiai Kiadó, vol. 129(6), pages 3341-3358, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:scient:v:129:y:2024:i:6:d:10.1007_s11192-024-05018-y
    DOI: 10.1007/s11192-024-05018-y
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