Throughout history, women have made ground-breaking scientific discoveries, pushed the boundaries of innovation, and transformed the way we understand the world. Yet, many of their contributions have been erased, overshadowed, or credited to their male counterparts. This phenomenon has a name: The Matilda Effect.
From Rosalind Franklin’s pivotal role in discovering DNA’s structure to Jocelyn Bell Burnell’s work in astrophysics, women in science have repeatedly been overlooked. Even today, gender bias continues to shape recognition, funding, and career progression in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields.
So, what exactly is the Matilda Effect, and how can we ensure women in science get the credit they deserve? Let’s dive in.
What Is the Matilda Effect?
The Matilda Effect describes the systematic undervaluation and misattribution of women’s scientific contributions. The term was coined in 1993 by historian Margaret W. Rossiter, who named it after Matilda Joslyn Gage, a 19th-century women’s rights activist who first documented how women’s achievements were often credited to men.
The Matilda Effect exists across various fields, from medicine to physics, where women’s discoveries and innovations are frequently downplayed or erased. This isn’t just a thing of the past—it continues today, affecting recognition, funding, and professional opportunities for women in STEM.
Real-World Examples of the Matilda Effect
1. Rosalind Franklin – DNA’s Hidden Hero
When you think of DNA, the names James Watson and Francis Crick likely come to mind. But without Rosalind Franklin, their breakthrough might never have happened. Her X-ray diffraction images were crucial in identifying DNA’s double-helix structure. Despite this, Franklin was not credited when Watson and Crick received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1962.
2. Jocelyn Bell Burnell – The Overlooked Astrophysicist
In 1967, Jocelyn Bell Burnell discovered pulsars, a major breakthrough in astrophysics. However, when the 1974 Nobel Prize in Physics was awarded for this discovery, it went to her male supervisor, Antony Hewish, while Bell Burnell was largely ignored.
3. Esther Lederberg – A Microbiology Pioneer
Esther Lederberg was instrumental in developing bacterial genetics and discovered the lambda phage, a virus crucial in genetic research. However, when her husband, Joshua Lederberg, won the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1958, she was not acknowledged, despite her significant contributions to the research.
These are just a few examples of the Matilda Effect in action. But why does this happen, and why does it still persist today?
Why Does the Matilda Effect Still Exist?
Despite progress in gender equality, bias against women in STEM remains widespread. Here’s why:
- Gender Stereotypes in Science: Society has long viewed science and mathematics as male-dominated fields, creating unconscious bias that favours men in research and leadership roles.
- Lack of Representation: With fewer women in senior academic and research positions, there are fewer role models, mentors, and advocates for female scientists.
- Publication and Citation Bias: Studies show that research papers authored by women are less likely to be cited than those by men, further diminishing their visibility.
- Recognition and Funding Gaps: Women receive significantly less research funding and fewer prestigious awards compared to their male counterparts, limiting their career progression.
The Matilda Effect isn’t just about unfair recognition—it has real-world consequences. By overlooking women’s contributions, we fail to acknowledge their intellectual achievements, discourage future generations of women in STEM, and hinder scientific progress.
How Can We Combat the Matilda Effect?
Addressing the Matilda Effect requires systemic change. Here’s what can be done to ensure women in science receive the credit and opportunities they deserve:
1. Increase Visibility and Recognition
Highlight the achievements of women in STEM through media, education, and public discourse.
Ensure award committees and academic institutions are actively recognising female scientists.
2. Promote Women in Leadership Roles
Support initiatives that encourage more women to pursue leadership positions in academia, research institutions, and industry.
Implement mentorship programs to guide and support young women in STEM careers.
3. Challenge Bias in Publishing and Funding
Encourage gender-blind peer review processes to reduce bias in scientific publications.
Push for equal funding opportunities for women-led research projects.
4. Advocate for Policy Changes
Governments and institutions should implement policies that actively promote gender equity in STEM fields.
Establish quotas or incentives to increase the representation of women in science and technology leadership.
5. Educate the Next Generation
Teach students about the contributions of women in science, ensuring their achievements are part of mainstream education.
Challenge outdated gender stereotypes that discourage girls from pursuing STEM careers.
Final Thoughts: The Future of Women in Science
The Matilda Effect serves as a stark reminder that recognition matters. When we fail to credit women for their scientific breakthroughs, we not only diminish their contributions but also risk discouraging future generations of female scientists.
At SheThrives, we believe in celebrating and amplifying the voices of women in STEM. Their work has shaped our world, and it’s time we ensure their contributions are acknowledged, valued, and celebrated.
So, next time you hear about a scientific discovery, take a moment to ask: Who really made it happen?