MACMILLAN Women, Research and Careers

More women than men complete a social science undergraduate degree but few consider a research career. Social science research has typically been a masculine endeavour, and women who are engaged in social research in British universities face greater obstacles than men in building a successful career. This book draws upon the experiences of a group of women who came together for support and encouragement in becoming `research active'. These women are at different stages of their careers and their personal lives, and yet each contribution reflects the difficulties of being a woman researcher in academia. The main issues facing women in research are identified and the book will be useful for those considering, or already embarked upon, a research career. It also contributes to debates about women's role in the academic world. This collection breaks new ground by combining the reflections of established researchers with self- assessment exercises for potential researchers. Review 'It is the kind of book I wish I had had access to years ago...an admirable and accessible guide to transgressing exclusionary boundaries in pursuit of the pleasures of a career in research.' - Melanie Walker, Teaching in Higher Education Synopsis Drawing upon the experiences of a group of women in social science who came together for support and encouragement in becoming "research active", this study identifies the main issues facing women in research to help those considering, or already embarked upon, a research career as well as contributing to debates about women's role in the academic world. This collection combines the reflections of established researchers with self assessment exercises for potential researchers. About the Author SUE HATT is Senior Lecturer in Economics at the University of the West of England, Bristol. She is the author of Gender, Work and Labour Markets and is a member of the International Association for Feminist Economics (IAFFE). JULIE KENT is Senior Lecturer in Sociology and Postgraduate Research Studies Officer at the University of the West of England, Bristol. She has worked as a research officer on a Department of Health project on midwifery education and is currently completing a book on sociological perspectives on pregnancy and childbirth. CAROLYN BRITTON is Senior Lecturer in Sociology at the University of the West of England, Bristol. Her teaching is mainly in gender studies courses and her research interests lie in gender, the family and education and she has published several articles in this area.