At Open University, Dan Drezner points to a new study by the National Academy of Sciences panel, “Beyond Bias and Barriers: Fulfilling the Potential of Women in Academic Science and Engineering.” In the New York Times, Cornelia Dean writes that women are falling behind men in the science because of “bias and outmoded institutional structures”.

Let’s just say that someone was going to put together a survey for the chairs of political science departments that asked them various questions about their policies and practices, which might have an impact on the ratio of women on their faculty. Information could be gathered about how many departments offer time off the tenure clock, breast feeding rooms, mentorships, and on-site daycare. Some nice regional and university size comparisons. Any suggestions for questions?