This challenge is presented from our perspective as female researchers working within the DiXiT (Digital Scholarly Editions Initial Training) network. This will be a kaleidoscopic perspective, in line with the variety of cultures that make up the wider digital humanities community.

Comprised of 16 fellows in total, the DiXiT research network provides opportunities to enhance professional networks and academic profiles through the production of digital editions, peer-reviewed articles, and participation in highly collaborative conferences, training events, and short-term research secondments. Each fellow is required to move to a new country in which they have not previously worked or lived during the previous three years.

There are seven female fellows in the network, and of these, three have taken advantage of the Marie Curie EU family status scheme, which is intended to provide funding to sustain a family within a new country of residence. On paper, this network supports and promotes a work-life balance while facilitating cross-cultural research activities that would otherwise be unprecedented or financially infeasible. In practice, the picture is far more complicated. From researchers who have been asked about their plans for pregnancy during interviews, to other who have been denied or significantly delayed appropriate funds for family status, it is clear that young researchers, and perhaps young women in particular, continue to face challenges in research networks that extend beyond the life of the mind.

DiXiT Fellows cross several borders. Borders between countries, cultures, institutions and disciplines, but also the differences between traditional hierarchies within established institutions. Even in formulating this challenge, we are aware of an undercurrent feeling of ‘not wanting to complain’. We are cognisant of the incredible opportunity offered by the Marie Curie 7th Framework program. Yet, the issues we encounter affect the whole DH community of young researchers, and in the spirit of “paying it forward,” we hope that speaking openly about these issues will be a transformative experience for a new wave of researchers who wish to confront the status quo.