Abstract
In May 1992, the Society for the Advancement of Women's Health Research dedicated its second annual Scientific Advisory Meeting to exploring the problems that confront women in academic medicine. Two dozen representatives of medical specialty societies met to discuss and develop strategies aimed at improving the career development of women in biomedical careers. What follows is our preliminary analysis of the problem and recommendations for change. Our analysis draws on written testimony, conference discussion, and independent research.
Women in academic medicine face different challenges at different points in their careers. Lack of access to mentors and networks coupled with child care arrangements preoccupy junior faculty. Senior women confront "glass ceilings" and pay inequities. The medical specialty society representatives in attendance organized recommendations for career advancement according to three discrete stages in the academic career: recruitment problems, retention/promotion issues, and leadership opportunities. The recommendations apply both to medical specialty societies and to diverse federal, academic, and other research institutions. The participation of women in academic medicine will expand into the next century, and the successful implementation of strategies such as these will be essential to the future of biomedical research and clinical practice.
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