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As a woman hoping to enter the field of neuroscience, what are the best ways to combat the idea that cutting-edge STEM fields are better suited to men?

As a future psychologist, neuroscientist, and/or neurobiology researcher, I am concerned about the male-centric views surrounding STEM fields. As a feminist, though, I won't let this deter me. I am only wondering how other women studying and/or working in STEM, especially in psychology or neuroscience, deal with people/situations who try to challenge the increasing involvement of women in STEM. What are things that you can say to people, men or women, who ask why you chose STEM instead of a more "feminine" job? How do you inform people about the need for women in STEM? #psychology #biology #research #therapy #neuroscience #sexism #gender #neurobiology

psychology biology research therapy neuroscience gender sexism neurobiology
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Daniela’s Answer

Hi Emily,


I, personally work in the field of neuroscience, as a Researcher and Educational Writer in Neuroeducation. In Neuroeducation, we study how the brain learns, and how we can improve student´s learning through the discover of new strategies and techniques in neuroeducation.


For your information:


Science is stronger with the expertise and input of diverse voices, including women. Women have been an increasing force within the field, more than doubling over the past 20 years – 21 percent of SfN members were women in 1982 compared to 43 percent in 2011, according to membership surveys.
SfN is committed to the continued advancement of women in neuroscience. The Society provides opportunities to highlight the scientific excellence of women neuroscientists, address the challenges women may confront in academic and other professional settings, educate about and overcome gender-bias, and advance training opportunities for women.


Activities include opportunities for women scientists to earn annual travel awards to SfN’s annual meeting, participate in mentor/mentee partnering, and participate in career development programs.


Programs and Activities:


Department Chair Training to Increase Diversity (IWiN)
Through IWiN, SfN seeks to provide concrete strategies focusing on recruitment, advancement, and creating a favorable work climate for female faculty and faculty from diverse backgrounds in neuroscience and neuroscience-related departments and programs.


Annual Celebration of Women in Neuroscience Luncheon
SfN honors women in neuroscience with the Celebration of Women in Neuroscience event each year at the SfN annual meeting.


See the video about women in Neuroscience in:


https://www.sfn.org/careers-and-training/women-in-neuroscience


Best!
Thank you comment icon Thank you so much for this response!! Emily
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Quinci’s Answer

If someone ever says that STEM careers are for men that is considered sexual harassment and can be reported. So you can forget about STEM being a male career because that is a huge crime to say to a woman and can be taken very seriously. Just try to be positive about your career choice and remember the reasons why you decided to have that career path and see if it worth the possible stereotypes that you might think people will say.
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