Networking, gender and academia: An ecosystems approach

The ability to create, develop and manage effective networks is important for academics. Networks can create entrepreneurial and commercialisation opportunities, act as important vehicles for career advancement, help to highlight achievements, and facilitate individuals' career progression. However, while men's success in gaining promotion has been attributed to their effective use of networks, women do not appear to have benefitted to the same extent. This chapter draws on qualitative empirical data from the TRIGGER project to explore critically the perceived barriers and potential benefits of networking for women academics. Adopting ecosystems as a theoretical lens, the authors explore the perceived barriers and potential benefits of networking for women academics.