Abstract:  The article addresses the challenges to achieving gender equality in academia, with a particular focus on work–life balance as outlined in the University of Ljubljana’s Gender Equality Plan (2022–2027). Based on a 2022 survey of 820 academic staff members, the study investigates how caregiving responsibilities, institutional practices, and organizational culture affect career advancement and satisfaction with the work environment, particularly concerning gender equality. The findings reveal significant gender differences in caregiving responsibilities, uptake of parental leave, access to leadership positions, and perceptions of institutional support. Women are disproportionately affected by inflexible promotion criteria, such as the mandatory three‐month stay at a foreign university or research institution, and report higher instances of career setbacks following parental leave. Regression analyses underscore the role of perceived equal opportunities, supportive leadership, and workplace culture in shaping experiences of gender equality. While the Gender Equality Plan at the University of Ljubljana outlines promising measures, the study highlights a critical gap between policy and practice.

Keywords:  academia; career advancement; caregiving; gender equality; institutional practices; work in research; work–life balance

Published:   23 July 2025

Issue:   Vol 13 (2025): Gender Equality Plans in European Research Performing Organisations (In Progress)