Women in Science: Overcoming the Matilda Effect and Achieving Equality

About this course:

Rosalind Franklin, Vera Rubin, and Barbara McClintock made groundbreaking contributions to science and helped change the world, yet their names remain largely unknown. This phenomenon is referred to as the Matilda Effect, in which women's scientific achievements are downplayed, ignored, or attributed to men. This is not a relic of the past; current studies reveal persistent gender bias where their work is cited less frequently, and they face harassment in the workplace. Join us in an exploration of the challenges women face while pursuing careers in science, often resulting in limited access to education, laboratories, and funding or forcing them to work in secrecy. We examine why pioneering women have been written out of science history, but we also celebrate the countless individuals who have overcome and shaped the scientific landscape of today. No background in science is required, just curiosity and a desire to stimulate your mind. This course will be recorded. Students will have access to the video for 30 days.