The under-representation of women in research has been exacerbated due to the COVID-19 pandemic, according to Faculty Fellow and Ford Program Director Patrizio Piraino. He conducted a study in South Africa focusing on how the pandemic directly affected women in research and what hindered them from producing their work. Many of their difficulties included laboratory closures, inability to do field work, and taking care of children at home. Piraino urges institutions to implement policies that will uplift women in academia instead of furthering the gender gap.