Breaking Barriers: Women in STEM

Welcome to Thought Cafe, where curious minds come together to discuss important topics. In this podcast episode, hosts Julia and Suzanna discuss women in STEM with Dr. Renée Hložek — an Astrophysics professor, Rhodes scholar and Feminist scientist. Dr. Hložek sheds light on the challenges of academia, namely with regards to equal treatment and access on the basis of gender, race, or sexuality. She describes what at times can feel like "a culture that prioritizes brilliance over humanity", when hostility in the workplace is seen as a marker of intelligence, elevating the wrong people to high positions. She shares stories and experiences of mistreatment & harassment of women in science, and shares how a climate of fear can keep victims silent. Dr. Hložek also shows us that science is what we make it. That it can, and should — celebrate our differences, and create a safe and accessible space for everyone. She spoke of her desire for STEM to feel as approachable as any other job, unremarkable, even. And the goal to make everyone who's curious feel like a scientist. We loved this conversation, and hope you do too.

Be sure to also check out our animated Thought Café+ episode with Dr. Renée Hložek from 2018:

[UnderstandingCode]

Cool to hear about the ACT and Large Synoptic Survey Telescope in the Atacama Desert by UofT Astrophysics Professor Renée Hlozek