The research gender bias gets transformed Addressing female under-representation in academic research can help transform institutions to foster environments for equal gender participation and performance constituting enhanced quality of research. Health © Thinkstock Advancements have been made towards gender equality in research in the EU, yet in the fields of science, technology, engineering and mathematics women are still under-represented. This is particularly the case at the level of full professor and within key decision-making bodies. Thus, the European Research Area (ERA) is faced with obstacles in terms of reaching its goals regarding the full participation of women in research and innovation. INTEGER (Institutional transformation for effecting gender equality in research) was an EU-funded project that addressed these issues by implementing sustainable Transformational Gender Action Plans (T-GAPS). Three major European institutions partnered together in their commitment to gender equality in an effort to transform academic and research institutions. In such a way, female under-representation can be addressed so that men and women can perform equally. The project's key operating areas covered engaging decision-makers, improving organisational structures, career progression, development and support, and work-life balance. T-GAPs are made up of gender tools and approaches useful for addressing the issues identified in each implementing organisation at institutional and local levels. Key performance indicators were used to monitor implementation and the plan is to regularly update T-GAPs. Comprehensive guidelines and dissemination can help peer institutions to engage in structural change and create an impact on organisations and institutions across Europe. This will help fulfil ERA objectives. Keywords Female under-representation, academic research, gender equality, institutional transformation, Transformational Gender Action Plans
