There is an increasing number of excellent women at the graduate and postdoctoral levels who require support and mentorship to pursue a successful academic career. Despite their talent, women remain under-represented in science, with a gender gap particularly evident in the fundamental sciences and technology. Nevertheless, the perspectives and creativity of women have been shown to contribute to important scientific discoveries. Visionary women have transformed the way we look at genetic information, from the groundbreaking work of Rosalind Franklin to understand DNA to the latest most exciting discoveries by Jennifer Doudna and Emmanuelle Charpentier to edit genes. Inspiring pioneers in computational chemistry include Mary Ann Mansigh Karlsen, a computer programmer who worked with Berni Alder and Tom Wainwright in posing the basis for modern molecular dynamics simulations in the mid-twentieth century. I will discuss the opportunities and challenges of women in science by reporting my experience and reviewing more broadly the difficulties of women in pursuing higher education, including social, economic, and cultural issues. Finally, I will report the efforts and activities of the scientific community to mentor and inspire the next generation. In summary, I hope my contribution will inspire the next generation of women in chemistry, increasing opportunities and welcoming diversity.

Celebrating the next generation of Women in Chemistry to increase diversity, equity, inclusion, and respect

Where thousands of chemistry professionals meet to share ideas and advance scientific and technical knowledge. Spring 2023 abstracts, posters, and presentations will launch at the end of March.

ACS Spring 2023

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.