Lived Experiences of Female Faculty in Iran: A Phenomenological Study of Academic Social Relation

This research aims to present a sociological analysis of female experiences in Iranian research institutions. While women work within established scientific systems, may not always adhere to formal structures; their professional journeys are often shaped by informal cultural and institutional influences that affect their social, cultural, and economic standing. By a phenomenological approach, the research explores how female faculty members perceive their interactions with colleagues, especially the gender-based aspects of these relationships. The findings show formal considerations and general cultural norms play a significant role in interactions between colleagues of the opposite sex. The study also showed that, male influence and dominance has caused women’s extra efforts to prove their capabilities. Culture in all its dimensions, from organization, university, and popular culture, is one of the most influential factors on the lived experience of women in the academic environment. Other key themes include the difficulty of managing work and family life, gender-related stereotypes, and how age and cultural norms affect communication. The study highlights how organizational and cultural factors significantly impact the professional interactions of women in academia and shows how both institutional structures and individual actions contribute to creating fair and inclusive academic environments.