Overcoming isolation: Women's dilemmas in American academic science

Science is an intensely social activity. Professional relationships are ess ential for scientific success and mentors are indispensable for professiona l growth. Despite the scientific ethos of universalism and inclusion, Ameri can women scientists frequently experience isolation and exclusion at some time during their academic career. By contrast, male scientists enjoy infor mal but crucial social networks. Female scientists develop necessary strate gies and defences, but many leave or achieve less success in science when d eprived of necessary interpersonal connections. There is indication that ch ange within departments is occurring, but this is dependent upon institutio nal leadership.