The term “women in science” has long been associated with nonconformist women who use their unique and special qualities to surmount the mountains of science and then retain their footing in the largely male-dominated fields. But who are these women, and how do they actually see their careers? This question is asked and mostly answered in this book by Magdolna Hargittai, research professor of structural chemistry at the Budapest University of Technology and Economics. The book captures 60 of her approximately 100 interviews with female scientists who hold or have held high positions in science and administration, but also includes some with more ordinary scientific careers. Hargittai has been dedicated to interviewing both male and female scientists for years, and this book is the compilation of her research and visits with women in the United States and Europe, plus Russia, Turkey, and India—countries whose women of science she felt are underrepresented. Some of the women are famous scientists in their own right; others contributed to partnerships with their husbands; and others hold or have held administrative positions leading major universities, hospitals, or scientific organizations. Unsurprisingly, most of the women tell similar stories of having strong mentors, a passion for science, and a willingness to work very hard.
Each interview is short, on average about four pages, and includes a brief description of the scientist’s technical work and achievements. In Hargittai’s interviews, she asks the scientists, “How did you balance having a family and children with your demanding job?”—a question rarely asked of men, and cautiously asked of women. The interviews left me satisfied that there is no inherent conflict with women being scientists while also having rich family lives.
The text is straightforward and analytical, as might be expected from a work authored by a research scientist. As a result, the book reads as a history book with its factual information and life details. The women, therefore, come across as veterans rather than role models. The stories are upbeat and inspirational, with no complaints about the Nobel prizes they should have won or workplace hazards, such as sexual harassment. The only shortcoming of the book is that Hargittai draws no strong conclusions from the summary of the interviews, leaving the reader craving her perspective on how these women fit into a broader picture of history and science. This book will be of interest to both upcoming and established women in science, their children and families, as well as historians.
Reviewer: Karen Swider Lyonsresearches fuel-cell and battery materials and their integration into naval systems in Alexandria, Va., USA.
