Our activities

The Dutch Network of Women Professors (LNVH) works towards an inclusive, safe, and equitable academic environment in which talent can fully thrive. We are committed to improving the position of women in academia.

Our activities are organized around two key pillars:  Policy-influencing activities and capacity-building activities .

Policy-influencing activities

Through research, monitoring, strategic advice, and advocacy, LNVH helps shape policy within universities, university medical centres (UMCs), research organisations, and government bodies.

Monitoring and research

LNVH collects and analyses data on gender equality in academia. Through this work, we identify barriers, trends, and opportunities, and provide institutions with evidence-based recommendations.

Our key research activities include:

• The annual Women Professors Monitor, the leading overview of the position of women in Dutch academia.
• Research on topics such as academic leadership, social safety, and career development.
• The development of knowledge products that help institutions strengthen their policies.

Strategic advice and executive dialogue

Every year, LNVH consults with the Executive Boards of all Dutch universities, the governing boards of the UMCs, relevant ministries, umbrella organizations, and research funding agencies to monitor progress and shape national policy on gender equality in academia.

Topics discussed include:

• The representation of women in academic and leadership positions;
• Career progression to senior academic roles;
• Diversity and inclusion policies;
• Social safety;
• Equal pay;
• Leadership and academic culture.

Advocacy and representation

LNVH brings academic insights and evidence to policymakers, ministries, research funders, and sector organisations.

We advocate for:

• Gender equality in academia and higher education;
• Social safety;
• Inclusive recruitment, selection, and evaluation procedures;
• Fair career opportunities;
• Sustained attention to diversity and inclusion in policy and funding.

Networks and knowledge exchange

LNVH brings together policymakers, HR professionals, diversity officers, and other experts to exchange knowledge and experiences.

This includes:

• The LNVH platform for HR advisors;
• Participation in national networks and consultation structures focused on diversity and inclusion;
• Collaboration with universities, UMCs, NWO, KNAW, UNL, and the Dutch Ministry of Education, Culture and Science (OCW).

Capacity-building activities

In addition to influencing policy, LNVH directly supports women academics in their professional development, visibility, and career advancement.

Nominations for awards, grants, and positions

Each year, LNVH nominates outstanding women scientists for national and international awards, fellowships, academy memberships, and leadership positions.

In doing so, we help increase the visibility of women’s talent and strengthen the representation of women in key decision-making and leadership roles.

Grants and funding programmes

Through a range of funding programmes, LNVH supports women researchers in strengthening their academic careers and international networks.

Examples include:

• The Distinguished Women Scientists Fund (DWSF);
• The Advancing Women in Biology Fund;
• Involvement in the For Women in Science Fellowship Programme.

Mentoring and peer support

LNVH connects scientists with experienced mentors and facilitates the exchange of knowledge and experience.

Mentoring supports researchers in areas such as:

• Career development;
• Leadership;
• Grant applications;
• Navigating academic careers;
• Personal and professional growth.

Visit our mentoring page for more information

Scouting, matching, and visibility

LNVH supports universities, research institutions, and executive search firms in identifying women candidates for academic and leadership positions.

We also share relevant vacancies and help bring the expertise and talent within our network to wider attention.

Events and community building

Each year, LNVH organises events that bring women academics together to connect, inspire one another, and strengthen professional networks.

Examples include:

• The LNVH Spring Symposium;
• The annual Affiliates' Meeting;
• Thematic events and workshops;
• Support for local women’s networks within universities and UMCs.

Communication and knowledge sharing

Through interviews, newsletters, publications, social media, and campaigns, LNVH shares knowledge, research findings, and experiences from academia.

In doing so, we increase the visibility of women scientists and raise awareness of the structural changes needed to create a more inclusive academic community.

Working together towards an inclusive academic community

With nearly 2,000 affiliated women professors and associate professors, LNVH represents a strong national network. Together, we work towards an academic system in which talent, excellence, inclusion, and social safety are at the core.