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India's Women in Science: Breaking Barriers
27 Feb
Summary
- Scientific temper is a cultivable way of life for young Indians.
- New book by Dr. Karishma Kaushik focuses on women in STEM.
- Persistent challenges include hiring inequity and position gaps.
Dr. Karishma Kaushik, a physician-scientist from Pune, advocates for cultivating a scientific temper as a way of life for young Indians. She encourages curiosity and critical thinking about the world, moving beyond digital screens. Her recent book, 'The Real Deal: Lessons, Learnings and Laughter for Girl Scientists,' offers insights for girls pursuing careers in STEM.
The book addresses contemporary topics shaping scientific careers for women in India. Dr. Kaushik shared her journey, sparked during her MD research on chickenpox strains, which involved unique bedside-to-bench experiences. Her findings on Indian strains differing from the vaccine strain were published and awarded.
Kaushik stresses that science should be central to public discourse, moving from academic spaces into broader conversations. She notes that while women's participation in STEM in India is increasing, structural challenges like age-related cutoffs, hiring inequity, and a 'position gap' persist, often leading women to accept less prestigious roles.
Despite systemic hurdles, women in India are forging unique career paths in science, demonstrating self-confidence and agency. This shift signifies a move from viewing science as just a job to finding an intersection of priorities, interests, and skills, with many young women actively pursuing their Ikigai.
