Integrating the Sex and Gender Dimension in Research
General context
Sex and gender are two potentially critical factors of experimental design. In male and female cells (or organisms) strong differences can be obtained for behavior and responses even on the molecular level. This influencing factor in research is the sex dimension. Also, the behavior of the male or female human can be very different, the gender dimension in research. In the past, this realization has often been overlooked and neglected, resulting in the report of data that either has not been segregated for sex and gender or is representative for only one sex. But currently, more and more national and international organisations require that sex and gender are taken into account in research to be eligible to receive funding.
With this E-learning, LIBRA* wants to raise awareness on the sex and gender aspects that need to be integrated into all phases of research. This e-learning is freely accessible for everyone.
*LIBRA was a Coordination & Support Action project of the European Commission’s framework programme for Research and Innovation Horizon 2020. VIB was associated partner of this project.
This course is designed to provide you with basic concepts and tangible examples of the Sex & Gender Dimension in Research (SGR) and initial steps on how to account for it in your experimental practice.
The e-learning consists of 3 modules with video material (between 34 and 44 minutes per module) and additional resources. After each module, you can take a test and after succeeding for all three tests, you receive a certificate.
Everyone interested to learn how to integrate sex and gender dimensions in research.
Program
The e-learning consists of 3 modules:
Module 1: Introduction to sex and gender in research
In this module you will become familiar with the main ideas, challenges and opportunities of the Sex and Gender Dimension of Research (SGR). You will learn how to use correctly the concepts of sex and gender and see examples that show how crucial it is to include sex and gender considerations in biomedical science.
This module is based on a talk given by Sabine Oertelt-Prigione, physician leading expert in the field.
Module 2: How to integrate sex analysis in research
This module provides basic instructions to take the first steps into sex and gender analysis. It indicates practical ways to introduce sex as a biological variable through six checkpoints: relevance, literature search, in vitro and in vivo research, experimental design, report and recommend.
Module 3: Case studies
In this module you will familiarize with sex and gender aware research through the detailed analysis of two case studies taken from scientists' working at LIBRA institutes.
You will also explore general issues connected to the Sex and Gender Dimension of Research (SGR) through a video-interview to Gian-Paolo Dotto, University of Lausanne and Massachusetts General Hospital.
We warmly recommend to give a closer look to Irene Miguele-Alliaga's talk in the "Additional materials" section.