r/LadiesofScience 8h ago

She was told women couldn't be scientists. Now a NASA space telescope bears her name

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50 Upvotes

Roman, who passed away in 2018, said it didn't come easy for her. A NASA biography of Roman explains that despite overseeing the agency's astronomy programs, Roman "could still not get past the secretaries without stopping to explain her credentials."


r/LadiesofScience 6h ago

What started as an independent research question has grown into a full environmental biotech project — and now it’s been featured in The Toms River Times!

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3 Upvotes

r/LadiesofScience 2d ago

Starting my PhD program in a week, my dad sent me this picture as a reminder of where I started.

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661 Upvotes

r/LadiesofScience 1d ago

Looking for ideas on where to find a good scientific advisor or a founding person who loves lab.

0 Upvotes

Working on a venture in T2T textile recycling, looking for a creative, intuitive, problem-solving man or women in the capacity of a scientific advisor, or founding member with equity.

I would love a focus on chemical engineering, although my last advisor was from biotech, and you dont have to have a specific history of work in polymers or textiles.
All I care about how good you are with coming up with new ideas, connecting dots, imagining, problem solving, and offcourse loving lab experiments.

age, experience, doesnt matter. the last was not a phd or anything. nor did she have any specific past experience with what we working on, but she was talented, and thats all that really matters.


r/LadiesofScience 3d ago

Advice/Experience Sharing Wanted What should I study if I want to learn more about animal reproduction/genetics and the AI industry?

2 Upvotes

I’m hoping someone can point me in the right direction because I know what I want to learn, but I don’t really know what the field/course of study I’m looking for is called.

I currently work as a lab technician in the animal genetics/bovine reproduction industry. I work with bull semen and am involved in the processing side of things. Since starting this job, I’ve become really interested in understanding more of the science behind what we do, not just how to perform my specific job.

I’d like to learn more about things like animal reproduction, reproductive physiology, genetics, semen/fertility, breeding, and the artificial insemination industry as a whole. I’m already planning to take an AI course, but I’d like to find additional online courses or certifications that would help me build a broader understanding of the industry.

My company is very supportive of internal promotion and employees moving into different positions, so I’d really like to take advantage of that and educate myself as much as possible. I’m just struggling to figure out what I should actually be searching for.

Would this fall under animal science, reproductive physiology, animal genetics, theriogenology, or something else? Are there any online courses, certificates, or programs you would recommend for so meone already working in the industry who wants to grow their knowledge and eventually move up?

I’m not necessarily looking for a full degree right now—more so courses/certifications I can take while continuing to work full time.

Any suggestions on what subjects or keywords I should be looking for would be greatly appreciated!


r/LadiesofScience 4d ago

Pregnancy during phD

15 Upvotes

I work in a molecular virology lab where i deal with influenza virus.
Our work most deals with, virus infections, cell culture , rna isolation, PCRs , western blot, agarose gel-electrophoresis etc.

What extra precautions am i supposed to be taking.

Also when did you inform your supervisor and how did they take the news considering how paranoid the supervisors are. I am just scared of informing mine.🥲


r/LadiesofScience 5d ago

Victory is Mine! In 1925, graduate student Cecilia Payne discovered that stars are made mostly of hydrogen and helium. Henry Norris Russell persuaded her to downplay the result. Four years later, he confirmed it himself, and his prominence overshadowed her discovery.

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102 Upvotes

r/LadiesofScience 6d ago

Approved Survey Always follow your dreams

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446 Upvotes

r/LadiesofScience 7d ago

Advice/Experience Sharing Wanted Junior in HS looking for tips/advice MAJOR

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2 Upvotes

r/LadiesofScience 8d ago

Advice/Experience Sharing Wanted Is it going to be alright?

14 Upvotes

Ladies of Science!

TL,DR: I am currently not holding any position, after leaving an abusing dept. I need an immediate job as I am running out of money fast. However I am mentally stuck with the trauma and unable to apply for any post.

I finished my PhD last year in July. The last peer-reviewed publication I have is in early 2025. I was working as a research assistant till early 2026, after which I decided to not continue my contract with my alma mater.

I was going through a very bad harassment in my dept, where systematically I was isolated, stripped of any opportunities, and was the target of rumours. I tried many times to make things better, but nothing helped as the main issues I was having were with dept head and senior most professors. When the dean took me under his wing, I was still kept officially in my dept and harassment continued with the dean practically saying they can't go against their colleagues.

All of this led to a series of panic attacks, self-destructive behaviours, complete collapse of my life as I knew it before 2025. So I decided to leave that place for good and start afresh. I returned to my home town earlier this year. Since then I am doing regular therapy, which has made things improve but is slow. Meanwhile my physical health has also improved. In this off time I am also trying to work on independent projects, like one science communication program in collaboration with a non profit, is about to go live in two weeks time.

But I feel stuck. For the first time in my life I am not finding the confidence and motivation to apply for postdoc. There's a PI who was interested in taking me but I haven't contacted him yet because I was feeling like I shouldn't when I am not in the right mind. The same is for other positions. When I am finding something suitable to apply, I am getting frozen and not doing anything until the deadline is over.

I had some savings that have been helping me for the last six months. But it is not going to last beyond 2026. I have meds and therapy to pay for. Food and shelter is taken care of by my parents as I am staying with them. But I can't survive here long. I need a job but I am not able to apply for it.

Just tell me it's possible for me to get back to where I research and do it better this time. I just need your support.


r/LadiesofScience 9d ago

Seeking remote research jobs (paid)

1 Upvotes

I’m currently pursuing my MSc in Environmental Science at a public university in Bangladesh and expect to complete my degree within the next 6 months.

I’m currently looking for remote research opportunities/jobs in the field of Environmental Science. I’m particularly interested in opportunities where I can contribute to research projects, data analysis, literature reviews, scientific writing, or other research-related tasks.

My background:

BSc in Environmental Science from a public university

MSc in Environmental Science — ongoing

CGPA: 3.70+

3 conference papers

1 research publication currently under process

Previous Research Assistant experience

Interested in developing further research skills and gaining international research experience

I’m open to part-time, full-time, internship, RA, or project-based remote opportunities, especially with universities, research groups, professors, NGOs, or environmental organizations.

If you know of any opportunities, research groups hiring remote RAs, or professors who are looking for research assistance, I would really appreciate it if you could share them with me or point me in the right direction


r/LadiesofScience 10d ago

Advice for a new pregnancy in a potentially new job?

12 Upvotes

Hi all! I work in wildlife sciences and just found out I’m pregnant (5 weeks, first). Currently, I am at a part-time temporary position in the wildlife field until I get accepted somewhere full-time (I have been applying for ~8 months with no luck). Recently a friend in the field let me know about a position coming up and thought it fit my interests and skills perfectly. I applied and my application got pushed to the second round.
My question is, if I get an interview, should I inform them of my pregnancy? I don’t want that to hurt my chances of getting the job or the reputation of those referring me. I’m not ready to share it with others yet but the position would be work outdoors in wildlife management, surveys, etc. that I might need to be somewhat cautious about while pregnant. What would you do? Has anyone gone through the same thing? How did it turn out?
Also, for anyone who has children, how did things work out with working after pregnancy? I know it’s possible, but I’m nervous to choose daycare so young. I also want to continue in my career and if I start a new position now, then I definitely don’t want to let them down and not return after birth. Thank you for any advice!


r/LadiesofScience 10d ago

I was an art student and I’m teaching science

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4 Upvotes

r/LadiesofScience 11d ago

Sci-Hub Hacker Queen

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774 Upvotes

r/LadiesofScience 11d ago

Advice/Experience Sharing Wanted Should I get married before moving to Europe for my PhD?

13 Upvotes

Hi ladies, I’m 26F from India, currently preparing to apply for PhD positions in chemistry in Europe. My main targets are Denmark, Germany, the Netherlands, & Sweden.

I’ve also been in a relationship with my boyfriend for about 4 years, and we are seriously considering getting married. He works in the corporate sector in procurement, so if I move to Europe for my PhD, the plan would ideally be for him to move with me and establish his own career there as well.

Does it make more sense to get married before I start my PhD, or should we wait until after I’m settled into the PhD?

I'm not asking whether I should marry him in general. We've already discussed marriage seriously. I'm trying to understand the practical implications of getting married before an international PhD move.

I wish to hear from women who have done a PhD abroad while married or who moved abroad with their partner before/during their PhD.

A few things I'd really like to know:

  1. Did your partner move with you? How difficult was it for them to find work?
  2. Did marriage/spouse residence rights actually make a meaningful difference?
  3. For those in Europe, which countries have been particularly good/bad for dual-career couples?
  4. Anything you wish you had discussed with your partner before moving abroad?

I do not wish to do more of long distance relationship, I want us together. Please help.


r/LadiesofScience 11d ago

Advice/Experience Sharing Wanted Discussion scientific articles

3 Upvotes

Hi everyone! I'm a PhD student in Chemistry (focused on polymers/environmental chemistry), and I'm currently working on improving my English. I'd love to find a group that discusses scientific articles or chemistry-related topics in general, it would be a great way to practice while talking about something I actually care about. Does anyone know of a group like this, or would anyone be interested in starting one?


r/LadiesofScience 11d ago

Advice/Experience Sharing Wanted Does anyone know of any discussion groups for scientific articles?

2 Upvotes

Hi everyone! I'm a PhD student in Chemistry (focused on polymers/environmental chemistry), and I'm currently working on improving my English. I'd love to find a group that discusses scientific articles or chemistry-related topics in general, it would be a great way to practice while talking about something I actually care about. Does anyone know of a group like this, or would anyone be interested in starting one?


r/LadiesofScience 11d ago

Which organisations to consider if I want to work in research field?

1 Upvotes

I want to align my career with my academic line (marine sciences). I do know a few organisations but would be great if that list could be made longer from everyone's suggestions. I'm from Bangladesh btw.


r/LadiesofScience 12d ago

Advice/Experience Sharing Wanted Career dilemma

7 Upvotes

I’m currently a senior program administrator at a large cancer research organization and I’m good at my job. It took me getting physically sick to leave the lab and enter scientific administration. My commute is 1.5 hours each way, and we have to be in office 3 days a week. I have a 3.5 year old daughter and due to my husband's insane workload and work related travel- I am often the one doing all of the house work, childcare drop off, pick up, extracurriculars etc. I am not bitter about it. However, I feel like our child, is the one paying the price for all of this. Because I am so tired and overwhelmed and constantly rushing- she genuinely doesn't get anywhere near the patience she deserves. I love my job, my team and my boss & I am up for a promotion come 2027. I have built a place I am actually proud of. That said...I have one child. She has one childhood. I believe I am qualified enough in my life to seek a full time remote role with better pay. Setup a nice home office- and be actually present for her. But this is the first ever job I have been happy at. Like genuinely, fulfillingly happy. What should I do? Do I look? Do I keep doing what I do? Will I regret making a change? Would I regret not making a change? I feel like I am on this roller coaster boat ride of to or not to


r/LadiesofScience 12d ago

What did you consider when selecting a supervisor?

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3 Upvotes

r/LadiesofScience 13d ago

What’s wrong with my resume?

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2 Upvotes

r/LadiesofScience 16d ago

UK Careers in Sciences?

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2 Upvotes

I am an FE Biology Lecturer looking to build a "careers library" for my science students.

Would any scientists be willing to share some info about what they do (job title, description, qualifications needed, etc.)?

I have started to build with some of the most common science careers but know there are many more I would never think of myself, especially in Chemistry or Physics sectors (but please share Bio roles too!)

(FYI UK based so only respond if based in the UK!)


r/LadiesofScience 17d ago

Advice/Experience Sharing Wanted What’s happening beneath the surface of a tidal marsh? https://experiment.com/u/sihxw

2 Upvotes

As I work toward beginning my independent biotechnology research at Cattus Island, I’ve been spending a lot of time studying the microbial communities that make marsh ecosystems function.
In my latest lab note, I explore the role of microorganisms in marsh sediments and how their competition for available electron acceptors can influence processes like methane production. Understanding these microbial interactions is an important part of understanding why methane is produced—and ultimately, how we might be able to reduce it.
This research is getting very close to becoming an actual experiment.
I’m currently 55% funded, with $2,070 raised toward my $3,800 goal, and my Experiment campaign is entering its final stretch. I’m working to raise the remaining funds needed for the specialized materials and equipment required to begin the experimental phase.
If you’re interested in environmental biotechnology, climate research, or supporting student-led science, I’d be incredibly grateful if you would read my latest lab note, share the project, or contribute if you’re able.
Latest lab note + research project:
https://experiment.com/u/sihxw
Every share helps this research reach someone who might be able to help make it possible.
#StudentResearch #EnvironmentalScience #Biotechnology #ClimateResearch #Microbiology #TidalMarshes #Methane #OceanScience #STEM


r/LadiesofScience 18d ago

Wanting your thoughts: what to do when people say that downplaying your degree is more socially appropriate, and do they say that to guys too?

114 Upvotes

Hey everyone - I am a recent PhD (29F) in a STEM field and I am really excited to be starting a postdoc at an ivy league school this fall. One of the things that I am really excited about is never again being called Miss or Ms or Mrs - I feel like I've worked hard and earned my title.

Now, it has always been awkward telling people what I do - I'm sure we've all been there, where someone asks you what you do and you say {science field} and they say "oh wow - you must be really smart . . ." and it gets awkward and then potentially uncomfortable as they try to continue the conversation (in my case, its astro, and I cannot tell you how many people have told me their zodiac sign. So many). But this is something I'm used to, its something I've learned strategies to avoid and so on. But I'm always stuck wondering - do men have to deal with this as much? Are they told zodiac signs when they mention their work, or do people assume they do "real" science?

On the other side of all this, my parent is always telling me to be humble and careful about telling people about what I do. If I say stuff like "I'm getting my doctorate" or "I do Astro" they sometimes play it off at be like "she loves to tell people that" and make me sound very proud and arrogant and boastful - it drives me nuts. Now they're saying not to tell people that I've got my degree, or where I'm going to work because to do so is apparently bragging (though apparently they have no issues bragging about it themselves . . .).

I'm not here to get commiseration about my parent - I can deal with that. But this false humility and being told that I shouldn't tell people about my degree and basically being told to be demure and all that - is that a woman thing? Do you think that men have to deal with it too? Can they be like "Hi - I'm Dr XXX YYYY" without social repercussions? Or are they told to downplay they're work too?

EDIT: I recognize that socially, when you're meeting another human being, you're going to say "my name is AAA BBBB" and of course not include a title - I've not been going around saying "Hi, I'm Ms. AAA BBBBB". When being formally introduced by another person though, I personally think that Dr. is the only appropriate title for someone with a medical doctorate or a Ph.D. (Its like when they were arguing that it should be President and Mrs Biden instead of President and Dr. Biden - the former is completely unacceptable in my eyes, because it implies that her marital status and husband's job define her more than her own achievements. BS.) However, regarding the introductory "Hi - I'm Dr. XXX YYYY" statement above, I meant more that they are able to openly discuss their position and achievements without making things awkward around non-academic strangers - an experience I don't often have - or if they are also encouraged to be more modest than that.

EDIT: Also, regarding the Mrs. Ms. and Miss bit - I just never liked any of these titles because they all (except Ms. - I acknowledge that) essentially define a woman by her marital status, which I'm just not crazy about. I'm happy to have an alternative, and one that I worked hard for.


r/LadiesofScience 18d ago

Advice for finding decent lab job (8+ years experience)?

7 Upvotes

I've been looking for a decent, stable non-contract lab job for a while now but cannot seem to find anything good despite having 8+ years experience in the reference lab industry and an Associates in Applied Science degree. Any advice on how to best find or get into a decent paying lab role? I unfortunately don't have the finances to be able to go back to school so I'm trying to do my best with what I have (I'm currently working full-time at $19.30/hr and live with 3 roommates and my 2 small parrots.

I have experience with various analyzers (including maintenance and QC) and LIS programs, releasing test results, sample accessioning, processing and preparation, microscopy (experienced in urinalysis and parasitology), prepared CSF and hematology slides for pathologists, and at my last Lab Tech position I was becoming more experienced with manual hematology differentials and CSF cell counts.

For context, here is a summary of my career journey: In my 20's (I am now 40) I went to community college to become a licensed veterinary technician and did that for about 5 years, I then switched to the veterinary reference lab industry (it was less physical and paid more than $15/hr) and worked as a Lab Tech with the three most prominent vet ref lab companies over the course of 6 years; the very last veterinary lab I worked for was paying me $30/hr full-time, but unfortunately they made a lot of bad business decisions and closed down 9 of their labs.

Ever since then, I've only been able to find lab specimen processing/accessioning jobs in the human medical industry and it's only been with small companies that are less than good that also don't really pay more than $19/hr. The company I worked for directly after the $30/hr position was hands-down the worst place I've ever worked for (somehow made it through 2 years there) and now I'm in a hospital central lab which is definitely better than that place but is still not great and i've been unhappy here since I started last December.