He cited research in which girls have been shown to be ten times more interested in the subject material when they see other girls or women. Mr. Nye believes role models are a vital part of addressing the dearth of women in science. While it is good news that more women are in leadership positions in the scientific community than ever before, Rep. Morella has termed the upward mobility challenge to women in technological fields the silicon ceiling. Further difficulties are experienced by women in balancing family and career responsibilities. Women worry that is unrealistic to have children and successful careers as research scientists.
Experiments take time to set-up, conduct, and analyze.
Sometimes there are limited windows in which data can be collected and organisms and other supplies are available. It is often difficult to predict how long an experiment will take or possible set-backs that might occur. Situations ranging from having to pick-up children from the babysitter, being able to watch swim meets, and taking family vacations are challenging, though not unusual. Catherine Jay Didion, Executive Director of the Association for Women in Science, advocates more career flexibility and supportive work environments for both men and women seeking to balance family and career. The March 10 hearing also assessed the role of the federal government in promoting women in scientific fields.