Representation of women in executive and academic roles within scientific societies in the field of European Endodontology

Abstract

Aim: To explore gender distribution within the field of Endodontology in Europe and to evaluate the representation of women in executive and academic roles within scientific societies as well as national and international conferences.

Methodology: After ethical approval, an online questionnaire was developed and shared with the European Society of Endodontology and the 36 national Endodontic societies officially affiliated. The survey inquired about gender composition amongst members, executive committee roles, participation in major congresses and representation in leadership and authorship positions within scientific journals affiliated with these societies over the last 5 years. Information was also retrieved from publicly available websites. Genders of the first, last and corresponding authors from scientific journals were identified. The relative ratio of women amongst society members, executive committee roles, participation in major congresses and representation in leadership and authorship positions within scientific journals was calculated. The ratio of women in leadership positions was statistically compared with the mean relative ratio of women amongst society members using a one-sample t-test. The current proportion of women in individual roles was compared with the general proportion of women members using the Binomial test.

Results: Women account for 44% of members in endodontic societies. No significant discrepancy was observed in the overall representation of women as members in executive or editorial committees or in authorship positions within scientific journals in relation to the mean relative ratio of female society members but are significantly underrepresented in key positions such as society presidents, treasurers and scientific event organizers (p < .05). Additionally, women were significantly underrepresented at scientific events, both as lecturers and workshop leaders, at major congresses of national/international societies (p < .05). Few initiatives have been implemented to address these inequities; only three societies reported programmes aimed at promoting women in leadership or scientific roles.

Conclusions: Within the limitations of this study, women appear to be fairly represented as members of executive and editorial committees in national endodontic societies and the ESE, as well as in authorship positions within scientific journals, but underrepresentation of women in positions of power and scientific forums persists. Some countries have begun implementing strategic measures to promote gender equity.