Women have been vital to the physical sciences from the very beginning. Contrary to modern stereotypes, before the 1850s, physics was considered a “girls” subject . Since then, the work of luminaries such as Marie Curie, Lisa Meitner, Jocelyn Bell Burnell, Chien-Shiung Wu, and countless other women set foundational knowledge that continues to drive our understanding of the universe and advance collective scholarship.
A physical sciences education offers a wide range of world-changing possibilities. Through her work with AIP on the Attrition and Persistence Report, Evangeline J. Downie encourages students to explore physics beyond the stereotypes and discover the many ways they can apply their curiosity.
Evangeline J. Downie, Ph.D.
Professor of Physics
Associate Dean of Research
George Washington University
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Women have defied boundaries and reshaped the landscape of the physical sciences throughout history, showcasing their resilience, intellect, and unwavering determination. Trailblazing scientists like Vera Rubin, Shirley Jackson, and Chien-Shiung Wu have made significant contributions to the sciences— breaking racial and gender barriers. I’m grateful that they shattered glass ceilings, paving the way for me to have a career focused on advancing inclusion and opportunity in the sciences.
Diversity, Equity and Belonging Officer, AIP -
In our Global Survey of Scientists, we examined the situation for scientists around the world, accounting for sources of difference in experiences like academic discipline, time since degree, geographic location, industrial sector, and economic development. Despite these considerations, we still find women’s experiences in the sciences are consistently less positive than men’s. We advocate for systemic change because the physical sciences community needs unique perspectives to tackle tomorrow’s issues.
Director , Statistical Research
Throughout March, AIP is committed to highlighting archival images, statistical data, teaching resources, and news and analysis that celebrate the accomplishments of women in science. By elevating their experiences, we hope to inform and inspire meaningful change and inclusion. Be sure to follow our social media channels and join in on the conversation.
Since its inception in 1901, the Nobel Prize in Physics has been awarded to 225 laureates – just five of those laureates were women. In recent years, there has been more recognition for women in the Physics category of Nobel and other sciences. This timeline spotlights the inspiring women laureates for the physics prize who defied the norms of their time and the ones breaking barriers today.
Despite advancements across various fields, the physical sciences continue to grapple with a significant gender disparity in both representation and experiences. AIP’s research team showed that 25% of physics bachelor’s degrees and 21% of physics doctorates were awarded to women in the 2022-2023 academic year, while results from a 2018 Global Survey of Scientists indicated that women’s experiences in science are consistently less positive than men’s.
Efforts to address this disparity range from initiatives aimed at encouraging women to pursue STEM education to implementing policies that promote equitable hiring, funding, and advancement opportunities . Fostering an environment where all individuals, regardless of gender, can thrive and contribute to the advancement of physics is essential for the field’s continued growth and innovation.
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