Women academics and researchers in Turkish agriculture

Abstract

Despite several studies on women academics in general context, a particular research about women researchers and academics who work in agriculture-related studies has not been conducted. Therefore, this research is investigating the contributions of women academics and researchers to the agricultural development in Turkey. Especially, the problems they encounter during their activities in agricultural research institutes and universities, their research needs and area of expertise have been determined. Furthermore, their viewpoints and the contributions they have made towards our country's agriculture were attempted to be determined and their expectations were exhibited. In consequence of this research very striking results were obtained. Work experience of 30.8% of the women researchers is between 11-15 years and their membership rate to the national occupational associations is very high. Women researchers spare most of their time for the research followed by lecturing and consulting. Academics and researchers mostly (69%) stated that the number of women academics and researchers was insufficient and usually (68.1%) they choose their area of expertise by the recommendation of their education and friend groups. Among the problems women researchers faced in their institutions, inadequacy in research and education facilities precedes with a 64.8% ratio. Women academics and researchers, who participated to this research, think that self-development, gender factor in academic promotion and spare time for children are necessary and important with respect to the career and family life.