Women in science: system constraints – Prof. Heidi Prozesky – Stellenbosch University

This week on Womanity-Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to Prof. Heidi Prozesky from the University of Stellenbosch in South Africa, who surveyed approximately 5000 respondents from 30 countries in Africa to understand the next generation of young scientists in the continent as well as challenges faced by female scientists. Some of the issues inhibiting the progress of female scientists in the region, when compared to their male counterparts, include lower uptake of options to travel and work in different countries, fewer publication outputs and less collaboration with peers. Many of these issues link to the way that societies value women, the opportunities available to women, perceived gender norms and responsibilities which make striking a balance between excelling in a career and caring for a family demanding. Tune in for more.