Gender Differences in Academic Rank in Australian Universities
Abstract
"This study uses information on staff and student characteristics at Australian
universities to examine the determinants of the career outcomes recorded for male and
female academic staff in 2003. A comparison is also made with data compiled for 2002.
Significant differences exist between male and female academics in the probability that
they will be employed in one of the top two academic grades. These differences persist
even after account is taken of gender-based differences in age, qualifications, discipline
area and institution characteristics.
The paper discusses these results in the light of human capital theory and alternative
economic models of gender-based differences in employment outcomes. Several
suggestions are made about future research on gender equity in the university sector."