Exhibition: Changing Climates – a photographic journey of women in science

The story

During the summers of 2016 and 2017, Queen Mary University of London (QMUL) School of Biological and Chemical Sciences (SBCS) postdoctoral researcher Sarah Harpenslager joined a team of biologists on a series of expeditions to the Arctic. The team, consisting mainly of women, travelled to remote locations in Iceland, Greenland, Alaska, Kamchatka and Svalbard to perform scientific research.

During these trips, they realised that what they took for granted – a group of young women working in a harsh environment like the Arctic – was quite special. More than once, well-meaning (male) boat captains tried to take their heavy equipment, while astonished (male) bear guards asked them why they chose to work with mud every day. They realised then that most people still associate science and fieldwork with men, not women. To challenge persistent unconscious bias and provide people with a clear picture of what scientists (M/F) actually do, Sarah and her team are organising a photo exhibition showing images and personal stories of female researchers in Arctic science.

The exhibition

The exhibition will display a photographic journey of scientific wonder and natural beauty. Come and explore the images and personal stories of inspiring women who have travelled to remote places all over the world. This exhibition will focus on their work, inspirations and experiences of working under harsh conditions. Everyday, scientists from the UK and further afield will be present to talk about their travels, explain the science behind it and discuss any gender bias they encountered along the way.

For more information about the event, visit the Facebook page or Twitter (@WiS_Exhibition).