Currently, the number of women participating in science and technology (S&T) research is steadily increasing, and women are making significant contributions to national economic development. Through S&T research activities, women are increasingly affirming their position and role, and they are being recognized and honored by the State, society, and the wider community. However, alongside these achievements, women engaged in S&T research continue to face numerous barriers and challenges in their work, family life, and social environment. One of the major barriers affecting women’s career development in general, and participation in S&T research in particular, lies in traditional beliefs and social perceptions held by families, communities, and society. Historically, the saying “men build the house, women build the home” reflects the view that women’s primary responsibility is within the family, associated with domestic work, cooking, and the main caregiving roles for children and the elderly. In contrast, husbands and men are expected to pursue careers and public responsibilities, with leadership roles for men seen as natural. Meanwhile, scientific and technological research is a field characterized by significant challenges and demands, often requiring personal sacrifice. Research work is inherently demanding, and it becomes even more challenging for women who must simultaneously shoulder the responsibilities of motherhood and marriage while fulfilling both professional duties and household obligations. In addition, gender bias and discriminatory perceptions persist in certain segments of society. The mindset of “preferring sons over daughters” is found not only in rural areas but also in urban settings, and even among some leaders and managers who are highly educated and hold important positions. Such gender-biased attitudes often lead to an underestimation of women’s capabilities, particularly in S&T research. This not only limits women’s access to higher education but also affects how female researchers are evaluated, recruited, trained, and promoted, thereby hindering their career advancement and development. Therefore, these outdated beliefs, perceptions, and biases create significant barriers to the passion and commitment of women pursuing scientific research careers. Without understanding, sharing, and support from husbands, families, colleagues, and even supervisors, women face considerable difficulties in dedicating the time, effort, and intellectual energy required for scientific research work.

According to a United Nations (2022) study, women scientists tend to receive less research funding than their male counterparts, and although they represent 33.3% of all researchers, only 12% of members of national science academies are women.

In addition, issues related to institutional mechanisms, policies, and regulations—such as age limits for planning, training, and professional development of female staff—also create difficulties for women in general, and women scientists in particular. At present, policies do not include provisions that facilitate early salary advancement for female staff working in science and technology (S&T) research. Moreover, because women fulfill the role of motherhood within the family, applying uniform policies to all scientific staff (both men and women) is, in essence, not truly equitable in S&T activities.

BTC.