Implicit gender bias is still a major problem in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) which is heavily dominated by men in senior positions. In Australia, approximately 40% of early career researchers are female, but only 17% of STEM professors are women.

 

Herpetology is no exception! Herpetology is the study of reptiles and amphibians. Historically, it is a male dominated industry. 

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On Saturday 28th September 2019, Women Researching and Talking Herpetology hosted the first of its kind, a conference with an all-female lineup of 12 Australian herpetologists including Professor Lin Schwarzkoph (JCU), Dr Deborah Bower (UNE), and Dr Kate Umbers (WSU). This conference was organised by Kimberly McReynolds (UNE) and Kathy Potter as a constructive response to the lack of diversity in another herpetological conference held on the same day with an all-male lineup. The conference was a huge success and was an excellent platform to highlight the excellent science conducted by women in herpetology.

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Continuing on from the conference, it is important to continue to highlight gender bias and continue to close the gender gap in herpetology and all STEM fields. Unfortunately, female role models aren't always portrayed in the media.This deficit can be achieved by illustrating to the community what women are achieving and make them the face of herpetology for future generations. With female role models in the media, young women can see that a career in herpetology is achievable. 

 

I hope you can gain some inspiration by learning about the amazing lives and careers of these phenomenal scientists and naturalists. Let's embrace diversity!

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