For Women and Science

Why are women still underrepresent in science and technology fields? The “For Women and Science” campaign supports women interested in research and science all around the world. They celebrate the accomplishments of women in science and encourage women to pursue science related fields. Jean- Paul Agon, Chairman and CEO of L’Oréal and Chairman of L’Oréal foundation states, “We are convinced that science and women bring hope and foster discovery, innovation and excellence. All the best talents must be called upon to accomplish this mission. L’Oréal believes in women, L’Oréal believes in science.” “For Women and Science” feel women are important contributors to science. Women should feel comfortable with exploring their interests, even if their interests are in a male dominated field. The women interviewed in this video describe the ongoing challenges they face as women in science related fields. Often, they feel out of place due to the overwhelming male presences. One of the scientists interviewed, Reiko Kuroda, a Japanese chemist and professor at the Department of Life Sciences at University of Tokyo, explains how her supervisor discouraged women from partaking in science related fields. Bonnie Lynn Bassler, an American molecular biologist and a professor at Princeton University, explains that women have to attain more accomplishments and work harder to receive the same amount of credibility as men. Because there is a lack of women role models, women feel nervous about entering a science field. However, these scientists’ confidence demonstrates the accomplishments women have made in the science field.