Bridging Gender Gaps in STEM Employment: Insights from La Sapienza University Graduates

This research project aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the transition to employment for STEM graduates at University La Sapienza, with a particular focus on the gender differences in the labor market. Stemming from a decade-long research initiative, the project leverages an integrated approach that combines statistical analyses and bottom-up microdata analyses to gain insights into the complex dynamics characterizing the career transitions of STEM graduates(Alleva et al. 2015) . The research methodology involves the utilization of SPSS for constructing databases on graduates and employment contracts, as well as the development of derived variables from microdata to facilitate in-depth analyses. Building on the existing model of investigation, the research extends its scope to examine the efficacy of post-graduate internships and to reconstruct individual narratives through administrative data. By delving into the mandatory communications, the incidence and role of post-graduate internships across different fields of study and their impact on the transition to employment will be explored(Lucisano et al, 2021, 2022). Furthermore, the project aims to shed light on the contradictions within the labor market that often fail to adequately value the experiences gained during university studies, particularly with respect to gender disparities. The research also encompasses a sector-specific study on the employment transitions and the quality of the job market demand for STEM graduates. Given the central role of STEM disciplines in driving innovation and socioeconomic progress, the study seeks to provide insights that can inform educational policies and active labor market measures. It also aims to delineate strategies to enhance the employability of STEM graduates and facilitate a smooth transition into the workforce. Moreover, the project will delve into the complex issue of the impact of employment during university studies, exploring how simultaneous work and study may influence academic experiences and subsequent career paths. Additionally, it will analyze the effectiveness of post-graduate internships and their influence on career trajectories. The research will also examine whether the STEM classification contains significant differences in outcomes within its various study paths and whether it represents a significant difference compared to other fields of study. In conclusion, this research project seeks to provide a nuanced understanding of the career transitions of STEM graduates, with a specific emphasis on gender differences in the labor market. By integrating quantitative and qualitative methods and utilizing updated data, the study aims to outline a comprehensive picture of the challenges and opportunities that graduates encounter in their journey towards professional careers. The findings are intended to inform educational policies and support measures aimed at improving the employability of STEM graduates, particularly with regard to gender-specific considerations (Stanzione et al. 2020).