Children Before Tenure? How Children Shape the Gender Gap in Academia

For many in academia, the critical period of obtaining tenure coincides with the time when many plan to start a family. In some respects, the flexibility in the academic work life makes it easier to juggle the work-life balance with children in the household compared to other high skilled occupations. However, children also pose some unique challenges for young academics: traveling and longer research stays becomes more problematic, and reductions in hours worked may have a disproportionate effect on the likelihood of getting tenure as many must-do tasks – such as teaching – take time away for research, but do not by themselves have a strong impact on getting tenure.

Our four speakers will discuss the unique challenges that children create for young academics: Are men and women equally affected by children? If not, why? Are the effects of children in economics similar to other fields? What should institutions do – and not do – to facilitate continued career progress for young academics with children?

Please reverse your place at this panel through the RSVP section when logged in. The panel will be followed by a networking event for supporters of diversity and inclusion in economics (pre-registration for this event is needed too through the RSVP section).