Research is conducted in sectors where women predominantly work such as agriculture, or in places where vulnerable groups are exposed to various environmental challenges

– At LUCSUS, we need to be extra cognisant of gender inequality and include both women and men equally. We need to continously highlight patriarchal structures and make them visible in our research results, she says.

She notes that she sees the work with gender equality as having two levels: one level where she as a researcher and leader at LUCSUS needs to encourage a research approach that is cognisant of gender inequality, and tries to include a gender focus, and one level where the centre itself need to work internally with gender, fairness, inclusion and diversity,

– You need skills to see beyond your own bias and preconceived notions, especially since we conduct research in a range of cultures and countries around the world. To get those skills you need to work with openness, inclusiveness and bias in your everyday work environment, and start at home, she says,

She adds that LUCSUS continuously organises events to engage staff around unconscious bias as a way overcome gender and other type of biases.

– This time next year, I want us as a centre to have come even further when it comes to working with these issues, so that we can continue to have a positive impact in our research. But it’s also important to remember that all of us, women, men, girls and boys, are responsible, for creating an equal, better, and fairer world for women, she says.