BNA-sponsored 'Women in Science' database launches

23rd May 2018

Women in Science Database (WISDATABASE): An initiative to raise the profile of women researchers in Psychology and Neuroscience

In recognition of the contribution of women to psychology and neuroscience research Royal Holloway University of London, the British Psychological Society (BPS), and the British Neuroscience Association (BNA) are proud to announce a new initiative, the Women in Science Database (www.WISDATABASE.com). 

WISDATABASE will tackle the problem of under-representation of women in science by raising awareness of their achievements. Initially about 2,000 women psychologists and neuroscientists will be invited by email to join. All women scientists in these fields, across academia, industry and the third sector, are encouraged to participate. They can do so either by replying to these emails, or using the signup form at www.wisdatabase.com (available online from 24.05.18), or writing to wisdatabase@royalholloway.ac.uk.

“Women scientists are under-represented in positions of visibility, influence and authority in every area of scientific activity (for example, funding panels, senior academic decision-making roles, and keynote speakers at conferences). We hope our project plays a part in levelling the playing field. WISDATABASE will make the achievements and expertise of women scientists public and searchable so that they can be recruited into positions of influence quickly and easily. Increasing diversity impacts positively on science as it does in every other sphere.” - Narender Ramnani (Project Chair), Professor of Neuroscience at Royal Holloway University of London

The project is assisted by a steering group that includes Prof. Jackie Hunter, (CEO of BenevolentBio and former Chief Executive of the BBSRC), well known for her work in promoting the equality in science. Stephen Metcalfe MP is also on the steering group, and is a member of the House of Commons Science and Technology Committee.

“Psychology is overwhelmingly female and yet time and time again we find that these very same scientists are not represented or listened to at the various fora where decisions regarding the future of the profession are made. Our values at BPS demand that policies and practices take into consideration diversity, equality and inclusivity. This is why we felt it was so important to support this project.” - Sarb Bajwa (BPS Chief Executive)

“This is a very important initiative. Currently the research process is diminished by the exclusion of women from participation in science and from the contributions to the organisation of science and science policy. The BNA will play a role in changing that." - Dr. Anne Cooke (BNA Chief Executive)