Wanted: Women in Science
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As a subscriber you can listen to articles at work, in the car, or while you work out. Subscribe NowA forum in Indianapolis today will focus on how to grow the next generation of female scientists. The Women in Science Forum will feature speakers including Indiana University First Lady Laurie Burns McRobbie and IUPUI Department of Psychology Chair Peggy Stockdale. It will also spotlight research by undergraduate women in areas ranging from biology to mathematics. Stockdale says, while many areas of science remain male-dominated, she believes early inclusion in science-based activities and increasing the number of female teachers can help bridge the gap.
November 13, 2014
News Release
Indianapolis, Ind. — A forum at Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, hosted by the School of Science in partnership with Indiana University first lady Laurie Burns McRobbie, will focus on the outlook for women in science.
The Women in Science Forum, open to the public, will take place from 1 to 3:30 p.m. Nov. 20 in the Lilly Auditorium at University Library, 815 W. Michigan St. Because seating is limited, guests are asked to RSVP online.
A panel discussion, led by McRobbie, will addresses topics such as mentoring the next generation of female scientists, overcoming gender barriers and empowering students. Other panelists are:
— Kathy Marrs, associate dean for academic affairs, associate professor of biology and director of the Urban Center for the Advancement of STEM Education.
— Peggy Stockdale, professor and chair, Department of Psychology
— Jennifer Wolfgram, vice president of commercial education, Roche Diagnostics Corp.
The forum will also feature research presentations by undergraduate women whose areas of studies include biology, chemistry, mathematics, neuroscience and physics.
Some view the outlook for women in science, technology, engineering and math as less than favorable but are optimistic about increasing the numbers of women in the workforce in STEM fields and tenure-track positions.
The panelists are well-positioned to discuss these issues.
McRobbie recently received the 2014 Leadership Award from Women and Hi Tech, a nonprofit organization that serves to engage, educate and support women in science, technology and engineering in Indiana. The award recognizes an individual whose outstanding leadership has significantly contributed to the success of Indiana women in technology.
Marrs has promoted STEM education, especially for women, and is a leader in the school’s efforts to engage women in STEM research.
Stockdale is the co-author and co-editor of five books, including “The Psychology and Management of Workplace Diversity” and “Sex Discrimination in the Workplace: Multidisciplinary Perspectives.” She has also published widely in research journals and books on sexual harassment, sex discrimination and public health initiatives.
At Roche, Wolfgram plays a key role in issues related to women’s leadership and mentoring.
About Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis As one of seven Indiana University campuses, IUPUI is known as Indiana's premier urban research and health sciences campus and is dedicated to advancing the intellectual growth of the state of Indiana and its residents through research and creative activity, teaching, learning and civic engagement. Nationally ranked by U.S. News & World Report, Forbes and other notable publications, IUPUI has more than 30,000 students enrolled in 17 schools, which offer more than 250 degrees. IUPUI awards degrees from both Indiana and Purdue universities. IUPUI–What matters. Where it matters.
Source: IUPUI