When you think of a palaeontologist what image comes to mind? Is it a woman? For most people probably not. Yet there are many women in all branches of science including palaeontology. Starting from way back in the early 1800’s with Mary Anning who was a pioneer fossil finder, despite not being allowed to participate in research.
Today of course women take active roles in all parts of scientific and palaeontological research. But we still have a long way to go. For example, women today make up only approximately 17% of members of professional Palaeontological societies1 and a woman with a phd in geoscience can expect to earn $10 000 less than their male counterparts.
In 2014 two women palaeontologists (Dr Ellen Currano – pictured and Lexi Jamieson) started a project, collaborating art and science, to celebrate the inspirational and adventurous women of modern palaeontology and to educate the public on the inequities and prejudices that exist within science. Today The Bearded Lady Project, as they dubbed their efforts, has produced a feature length live-action documentary and touring fine art portrait exhibition, all in the hopes of inspiring young women to pursue a career in the geosciences!
At the National Museum we have three women palaeontologists! (so slightly ahead of the curve there). And there are many more working throughout South Africa. If you would like to find out more about the dozens of women making ground breaking discoveries in palaeontology then also check out Trowelblazers!
References:
1 Stigall, A. 2013. Women in paleontology: Where are they? Priscum: Newsletter of the Paleontological Society 20, 1-3.
2 NSF & NCSES. 2013. Characteristics of Scientists and Engineers in the United States: 2008.
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