Lara Zwittlinger

Lara Zwittlinger is a PhD Researcher in comparative politics at the University of Salzburg's Department of Political Science, part of the Faculty of Social Sciences. She completed her bachelor’s (2020–2022) and master’s (2020–2024) degrees in political science at the same institution. Her research focuses on gender equality, the societal impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the political consequences of the 'cultural backlash.' She holds the title of Researcher as part of her doctoral program.

Her bachelor’s thesis explored the gender equality paradox and its implications for women’s representation in STEM fields, while her master’s thesis analyzed pandemic-related shifts in political attitudes and party preferences. Her ongoing dissertation investigates the causes and political repercussions of cultural backlash phenomena.

Lara’s work bridges gender studies, political behavior, and public policy, with a focus on societal structures and crises. Her recent publications include analyses of lockdown impacts on gender roles, conspiracy beliefs, and STEM gender disparities. She is based at Rudolfskai 42, Salzburg, and can be contacted via email at lara.zwittlinger@plus.ac.at.