Support to the implementation of an EU Manifesto for STE(A)M education and research and innovation career paths to tackle gender inequalities in the ERA

Persisting gender gaps, particularly in STEM fields, are hindering the potential of the European Research Area (ERA) to meet pressing challenges like the green and digital transitions. According to She Figures 2021, women outnumber men at Bachelor and Master levels overall, but are still underrepresented as doctoral graduates in STEM fields, including physical sciences (38%), ICT (20.8%), engineering (27%), and mathematics (32.5%).[[ European Commission, Directorate-General for Research and Innovation, She Figures 2021: gender in research and innovation: statistics and indicators, Publications Office, 2021, https://data.europa.eu/doi/10.2777/06090]] In order to increase the uptake in scientific careers, feed the talent pipeline, and counteract women’s underrepresentation, a STEAM approach, featuring creative thinking, applied arts (the “A” in STEAM), and the teaching of science in political, environmental, socio-economic and cultural c