In Estonia, a greater number of women than men begin doctoral studies, reflecting a positive trend in female participation in higher education. Despite this increase, women represent only 38% of professors and associate professors in Estonian universities as of 2024. This phenomenon, where women's representation diminishes at each successive academic career stage, is often metaphorically referred to as a 'leaky pipeline.' The trends suggest that while entry into doctoral programs has improved for women, retention and advancement within academia remain challenging due to various systemic barriers.

Kadri Aavik, an associate professor of gender studies at Tallinn University, explores the root causes of this gender disparity in academia. While there is no singular explanation for the inequalities faced by women in science, Aavik notes that gender plays a pivotal role. The societal perception of the researcher archetype is traditionally masculine, which may deter women from viewing science as a realistic and desirable career path. The cultural narrative surrounding science continues to reinforce male-centric ideals, perpetuating biases that affect how female researchers are perceived and how they perceive themselves.

Moreover, Aavik points out that project-based funding structures and societal expectations for researchers to consistently dedicate themselves to scientific work contribute to the stagnation of female scientists' careers. These challenges underscore the need for institutional changes that could support women's career advancement in science and mitigate the systemic biases influencing their professional trajectories. Ultimately, fostering a more inclusive academic environment is crucial for elevating gender equality in research and academia.