Sexism In Science: Does It Hold Women Back From Success?

Sexism and discrimination in science have a significant impact on women who pursue careers in all fields of science. For example, undergraduate women may be deterred by classrooms dominated by men.  Female graduates may face isolation and discouragement. Yet, the percentage of women in science in undergraduate and graduate schools is increasing, illustrating that despite sexism women are succeeding in academia. The bigger problem occurs after graduation when women are forced to make decisions that men do not have to face, such as deciding between having children and working. Women working for research corporations, and on the tenure track, face an unforgiving system that frequently does not allow breaks for family, forcing them to abandon their hopes of children.  Although sexism holds numerous women back in science, many manage to overcome obstacles and pursue successful careers, and the present system although not perfect is certainly improving. The significant contributions that women have already made in a number of areas of science clearly illustrate that women are capable of great achievements in science, and to exclude them would be a great loss. To remedy the problem of discrimination against women in science, support systems should be established that allow women to participate in science on an equal footing with men.