The Institute for Molecular Biology of Barcelona (IBMB-CSIC) has conducted an analysis of the gender equality situation within the institution. The study, carried out by Ariadna Calvo as part of her final degree project, combines socio-occupational data, questionnaires, and interviews to provide a broad view of inequalities and staff perceptions.
The analysis focuses on several key dimensions: structure and leadership, recruitment and career progression, work-life balance, institutional culture, and an intersectional perspective. Based on the identified gaps, possible lines of action have been proposed.
Among the proposals presented by Marta Llimargas, representing the Diversity Committee, are the creation of interaction spaces between PhD students and established female researchers to facilitate experience exchange and provide role models. Emphasis is also placed on considering care responsibilities in decision-making and resource allocation, extending this perspective beyond childcare to include the care of dependent individuals.
From an intersectional perspective, the need to broaden voices and perspectives in participation and decision-making spaces has been highlighted to better reflect the diversity of experiences within the institute. Furthermore, prevention and institutional culture are identified as ongoing areas for action, including creating spaces to discuss gender-based behaviors and attitudes, and strengthening training and awareness-raising.
The data and experiences collected offer a snapshot of the current situation at IBMB and point to areas for improvement. The Diversity Committee views this assessment as a fundamental starting point for continued reflection, priority setting, and the development of concrete actions, aiming to foster a more equitable and inclusive institutional culture.
