When you imagine a scientist, does a wild-haired Albert Einstein spring to mind? Researchers have been asking children to draw scientists for decades now and have seen a steady rise in the number of young girls who depict a female when asked to "draw a scientist." But as students grow older, fewer of them draw female scientists, a reflection of the reality they see around them. 

    In celebration of Women’s Month, please join us for a screening of the film "Picture a Scientist," followed by a post-film “Reel Talk” panel discussion with Virginia Tech faculty and students about the status of women in STEM professions. This engaging event is scheduled for 7 p.m. Wednesday, March 5, at the Lyric Theatre in downtown Blacksburg. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. 

    The official website for the film describes it this way: "'Picture a Scientist' chronicles the groundswell of researchers who are writing a new chapter for women scientists. Biologist Nancy Hopkins, chemist Raychelle Burks, and geologist Jane Willenbring lead viewers on a journey deep into their own experiences in the sciences, ranging from brutal harassment to years of subtle slights. Along the way, from cramped laboratories to spectacular field stations, we encounter scientific luminaries – including social scientists, neuroscientists, and psychologists – who provide new perspectives on how to make science itself more diverse, equitable, and open to all."

    This event is presented by AdvanceVT, the Center for Communicating Science, the Women’s Center, the Center for Educational Networks and Impacts, the College of Science, the College of Natural Resources and Environment, the Department of Psychology, the Department of Geosciences, the Center for the Enhancement of Engineering Diversity (CEED), and Widening Inclusivity in the (Geo)Sciences (WInGS).

    Audience members will have an opportunity to participate in a "Reel Talk" panel discussion moderated by Center for Communicating Science associate director Carrie Kroehler and featuring faculty members Vanessa Diaz, Phyllis Newbill, and Rachel Reid; graduate student Amber Wendler; and undergraduate student Thiviya Karuppasamy.  Each panelist has been active in research and/or outreach efforts related to gender stereotypes in science and opportunities for creating change.     

    Readers can learn more about the award-winning film at www.pictureascientist.com.