A qualitative insight into researchers’ perceptions of gender inequality in medical and dental research institutions in Nigeria

OBJECTIVE: The aim of the study was to gain a qualitative insight into scientific researchers’ perceptions of gender inequality inside Nigerian research institutions through an investigation of how gender equality is enacted in medical and dental research institutions in Nigeria. METHODS: This descriptive and cross-sectional qualitative study probed decision-making around navigating gender inequity and explored opinions about how a supportive environment for female medical and dental researchers could be established. Data were collected through semi-structured telephone interviews with 54 scientific researchers across 17 medical and dental academic institutions in Nigeria between March and July 2022. Data were transcribed verbatim and analyzed using thematic analysis. RESULTS: Three core themes emerged: institutionalized male dominance in research institutions; changing narratives on gender equalities in research and academic enterprise; and women driving the conscience for change in research institutions. Female medical and dental researchers’ perceived gender equality was challenging mainstream androcentric values in knowledge production within the medical and dental field; and queries the entrenchment of patriarchal values that promote a low number of female medical and dental trainees, fewer female research outputs, and few women in senior/managerial positions in the medical fields. CONCLUSION: Despite the general view that change is occurring, a great deal remains to be done to facilitate the creation of a supportive environment for female medical and dental researchers in Nigeria.