Women in the marine sciences and in the aquatic ecology of Uruguay

Abstract

A plea of approaches is better to solve any problem. This is especially relevant in the field of science and technological innovation, in which women are recognized for promoting interdisciplinary and teamwork more strongly than men. However, women’s contributions are not recognised, their academic careers are negatively affected and, at work, they suffer situations that affect their health. Marine and aquatic sciences are among the areas with the greatest bias to women. To improve female participation, working conditions and to contribute to the diversity of thought, the visibility and discussion of these topics is fundamental. Our objective was to understand different aspects of the role of women, to evaluate gender biases and investigate gender discrimination in marine sciences and water ecology in Uruguay. Through a questionnaire targeting professors, researchers, students, and technicians in these fields, we evaluated gender gaps, discrimination perceptions, and links to caregiving and household responsibilities (including participants of all genders). Our results reveal a gap in academic training, career advancement and leadership opportunities. We also identified multiple forms of violence against women. Notably, while discrimination was reported exclusively by women, some men perceived it as irrelevant or external to their own experiences. These findings align with historical stereotypes faced by women in science, particularly in marine and aquatic ecology.