Female researchers are playing an increasingly important role in
China's scientific research, but when it comes to being recognized
at the top level they bang their heads against a "glass ceiling,”
according to a new report by the Chinese Academy of Sciences
(CAS).
The CAS report, released on Wednesday, said females make up one
third of the total number of scientific researchers in China.
However, only 5.5 percent of the 701 academicians in the Chinese
Academy of Engineering (CAE) and only 5 percent of the 704 CAS
academicians are female.
Only a small number of female scientists take part in major
national research programs, according to the report.
It pointed out that of the 175 top scientists sponsored by the
National Basic Research Program -- which covers the country's most
strategic basic research areas -- only eight are female. In
addition, no female scientists work on the 863 National High-tech
Research and Development Program.
A CAS survey found that female scientific researchers have to do
more than their male counterparts to reach the same level. Added
responsibility in the home and in educating children is a key
element hindering female scientists from making breakthroughs in
this field, but gender discrimination is another.
The report suggested the government enact laws and regulations
to ensure that there is no gender discrimination in scientific
research and set up foundations to sponsor female scientists.
(Xinhua News Agency March 8, 2007)