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Science is an intensely social activity. Professional relationships are essential for scientific success and mentors are indispensable for professional growth. Despite the scientific ethos of universalism and inclusion, American women scientists frequently experience isolation and exclusion at some time during their academic career. By contrast, male scientists enjoy informal but crucial social networks. Female scientists develop necessary strategies and defences, but many leave or achieve less success in science when deprived of necessary interpersonal connections. There is indication that change within departments is occurring, but this is dependent upon institutional leadership. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses the role of Massachusetts-based nonprofit advocacy organization the National Association for Women in Science (AWIS) regarding offering opportunity for women in professional development in scientific and technical careers in Massachusetts. Topics discussed include the AWIS' support to women for STEM education; the AWIS' help to women scientists to expand their network, build their leadership and management skills; and the MASS AWIS Mentoring Circle program.

This article studies reasons as to why women drop out of research works due to family affairs, monetary problems and responsibilities. The article gives information about the European Molecular Biology Organization (EMBO), which supports scientists who take time to rear family. The EMBO restart grants are just one of a handful of fellowships in Europe and the U.S. intended to kick-start a scientific career after a break. Others include the UK's Dorothy Hodgkin Fellowships, the Swiss National Science Foundation's Marie Heim-Vogtlin grants, and ADVANCE fellowships from the U.S. National Science Foundation. The fellowships aim to patch what was been called the "leaky pipeline" for women in science.

Discusses sexual equality in science, which is far from being reached. Report issued by the dean of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) which examined the working conditions of senior female faculty in the United States; Effects of the report; Analysis of women's place in various fields of science; Another report investigating sexual equality in Sweden. INSET: Europe faces up to its responsiblities.

Focuses on view of Harvard University president Larry Summers about the differences in the intrinsic aptitude between men and women scientists. Suggestion that Summers' remarks is covert way to advance women scientists' issues; Factors cited for the dismal statistics of women in science; Highlights of the report of the American Institute of Physics suggesting that the percentage of women holding faculty positions in physics and astronomy is fewer compared with some other fields.