Unconscious bias in academia

The chapter explores the concept of unconscious bias in academia, how and why it continues to perpetuate gender inequalities in recruitment, research evaluation and working conditions, despite the aspiration of universities being meritocratic institutions. Unconscious bias, sometimes referred to as implicit bias, is defined and its causes are outlined. The ways in which institutional structures support unconscious bias are closely linked to gender imbalance at senior levels in academia. The rise of precarious contracts, particularly as they impact on early career academics of all genders, especially women returning to employment after taking maternity leave, represents a further impediment to gender equality in academia. Hiring practices and promotion procedures play a part in the perpetuation of unconscious bias. Leadership and awareness training are vital in addressing individual and structural unconscious bias but changes in behaviour require Gender Equality Plan actions, at all levels and across academic institutions.