lf the reward and recognition,” Kameir says.
In addition, women can even climb up by improving their own expectations. Murray says, “I would encourage women to work on their self-esteem and self-confidence, where we certainly lag behind many male colleagues.” She adds, “Women scientists must learn how to be more assertive, without being overly aggressive, and make the time for networking with both male and female colleagues.”
Also, advancement takes time and persistence. “There are a lot of skills that higher level positions call for that you build up over time,” says Malcom. “You must be able to present well, be clear, be able to communicate in all kinds of spheres—written or oral.” She adds that everyone can benefit from a knowledge of strategic planning, managing people, developing budgets, and understanding the role of policy development.
To develop a network and build skills, Murray encourages all female scientists to join the Association of Women in Science. Likewise, several of the other experts offered the same advice. Murray says, “I have been a member in Palo Alto, California, for several years, and have been impressed by the encouragement this organization gives—helping high school science students, awarding scholarships to community college students with hardships, and being a voice in Washington, D.C., on national issues of critical importance to women in science.”
Getting a Head Start
In the long run, the scientific community could focus on women at even earlier ages. “It is a really crucial issue to get students excited in science and technology before the undergraduate level,” says Breazeal. “How do we attract more girls from kindergarten through high school?” She has some ideas. “You can imagine an online game that could engage kids in doing science and scientific thinking in ways they care about, and they could have fun with it.” But she adds, “It has to be participatory and engaging, and they have to care about it.”
In the end, being successful depends on loving the work. “You might get discouraged some days,” says Dean, “but if you love it, you will pursue it.” Still, a career in science challenges anyone. “Nothing is perfect,” says Dean. “Even though it can be hard—like encountering someone who says, ‘Girls can’t do science’—just say, ‘I can do it!’”
Mike May ( email@example.com ) is a publishing consultant for science and technology based in the state of Minnesota, U.S.A.
For the latest job postings online visit www.sciencecareers.org.