Discursive self-positioning strategies of Estonian female scientists in terms of academic career and excellence

Abstract

Synopsis The purpose of this study is to analyse the self-positioning strategies of Estonian female scientists in the areas of natural sciences and technology in order to understand how these strategies are influenced by discursive processes of career creation, success and excellence in science. An analysis of 20 in-depth interviews incorporates Laclau's and Mouffe's discourse theory to explore the hegemonies and boundaries in women's positioning strategies. The findings suggest that strategies that women use reflect different coping and resilience mechanisms in overcoming academic and career obstacles rooted in gendered processes in organisations. Gender neutrality, trivialising and superiority strategies reflect the tensions between women's self-positioning and academic excellence, which are framed by gendered symbols of achievements and careers in science. The findings contribute to the discussion of gendered organisations by focusing on the patterns that support the persistence of gender hierarchies and inequalities.