Neoliberal universities, GEPs and the everyday reproduction of gender inequality. A qualitative study

Abstract

This contribution analyses how gender inequalities are reproduced in the everyday life of research work. From a theoretical point of view, the author concentrates on presenting the transformations that have taken place in research work since the establishment of the culture of evaluation, within the so-called global neo-liberal university. Subsequently, these reflections will be interpreted concerning their incidence in reproducing gender asymmetries within this field of work, also analyzing the main theories that interrogate these dynamics within the academy. Finally, 12 narrative interviews with female researchers will be analyzed, to demonstrate that the gender asymmetries that characterize the contemporary academy cannot be resolved solely through normative practices, but how there is a need to transform the everyday relationships that are reproduced in university classrooms and departments.