Women Academic Scientists in India

Gender inequality in science is common to most nations. To a large extent, this inequality is a product of the socio-cultural environment in which science is conducted. The professional environment and the socio-cultural context are inextricably linked together in the practice of science. This Note analyses the perceptions of women academic scientists in India regarding the work and social environment, and the nature of problems faced by them. A triangulation of questionnaire and interview methods was employed to develop a holistic picture. The findings show that women academic scientists are influenced by the prevailing sociocultural system. Thus, ‘patrifocal’ ideology prevails at the workplace and in the family. Women face gender-related difficulties at work, and also shoulder a dual burden resulting in stress. These problems have significant consequences for the career of women academic scientists.