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Gender differences in career progression among PhDs in Economics

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  • Nicole M. Fortin

Abstract

This article reviews a selection of recent papers that leverage new analytics of career progression, emphasizing potential sources of gender disparities among PhDs in Economics. It offers a unique and comprehensive perspective by examining gender representation, from student choices to end‐of‐career rewards. The review provides a thorough, in‐depth analysis of the topic, highlighting the progress made in valuing women's contributions to economic research, including two Nobel Prize winners in the past 5 years. However, it also points out some recent transformations rooted in the empirical and “big data” revolution, which necessitates large teams of co‐authors and favours PhD applicants with pre‐doctoral experience, potentially disadvantaging women. Cet article passe en revue des articles récents qui exploitent les nouveaux outils analytiques pour retracer l'évolution des carrières des docteurs en économie et porte attention aux sources potentielles de disparités entre les hommes et les femmes dans cette évolution. Il offre une perspective singulière en abordant la représentation des genres depuis les choix d'études jusqu'aux titres honorifiques en fin de carrière. Cette synthèse approfondie du sujet mets en lumière les progrès réalisés dans la valorisation de la recherche des femmes en science économique, illustrée par deux lauréates du prix Nobel au cours des cinq dernières années. Cependant, elle souligne également que certaines transformations récentes ancrées dans la révolution empirique et « big data », qui nécessitent de grandes équipes de co‐auteurs et favorisent les doctorants ayant une expérience pré‐doctorale, peuvent désavantager les femmes.

Suggested Citation

  • Nicole M. Fortin, 2025. "Gender differences in career progression among PhDs in Economics," Canadian Journal of Economics/Revue canadienne d'économique, John Wiley & Sons, vol. 58(3), pages 806-830, August.
    • Handle: RePEc:wly:canjec:v:58:y:2025:i:3:p:806-830
    DOI: 10.1111/caje.70022
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