The Netherlands Organisation for Scientific Research (NWO) has introduced a pilot Vidi program to increase the number of women in higher scientific positions. Starting in autumn 2024, this initiative will prioritize quality in research proposals, focusing on supporting talented female researchers. Proposals with similar scores will be given preference to women, ensuring more female scientists secure Vidi grants. The program enables researchers to develop their innovative research lines and appoint one or more researchers.
The Vidi program is part of NWO’s broader Talent Program, which supports researchers conducting postdoctoral research for several years. The initiative aims to empower researchers to develop their innovative research lines and appoint one or more researchers to assist them. By targeting talented female researchers, NWO hopes to address the gender imbalance in higher scientific positions and promote diversity within the research community.
Quality-focused evaluation
The quality of the research proposal remains the primary criterion in the evaluation process. Each proposal is scored, and in this pilot, all weighted final scores after interviews will be rounded to the nearest 0.5. This approach aims to create more proposals with comparable scores. Proposals with the highest final scores will automatically receive a Vidi grant. However, when scores are close to the funding threshold, preference will be given to female candidates.
This pilot is a significant step towards increasing the representation of women in higher academic roles. NWO aims to create a more balanced and inclusive research environment by implementing these measures. The organization believes diverse research teams can drive more innovative and impactful scientific discoveries. This initiative aligns with global efforts to support gender equality in STEM fields, recognizing the importance of diverse perspectives in advancing scientific knowledge.
Anticipated impact
The pilot’s success could pave the way for more permanent changes in how research grants are awarded within the NWO Talent Program. If successful, this approach may be expanded to other funding instruments and initiatives. By prioritizing the support of female researchers, NWO is making a clear statement about the importance of gender diversity in science. This could inspire other funding bodies and institutions to adopt similar measures, contributing to a broader cultural shift in the academic community.
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