The Inspiring Journeys of Women in Science

ABSTRACT

Since 2017, the European Journal of Neuroscience has featured interviews with 27 female neuroscientists to showcase and celebrate their excellent scientific contributions and to hear their personal stories and advice for younger neuroscientists. Although these women represent different fields in neuroscience, countries, and levels of seniority, their stories share some remarkable commonalities, which we briefly discuss in this editorial. Highlighted topics include: the circuitous route of some of the careers; the importance of having good mentors and belonging to networks; the role of “good fortune” versus abilities and skills; the upsides and downsides of an academic career; some of the aspects in which women's academic careers may differ from those of men; and the advice the interviewees would like to pass on to the next generations. Although it is clear from these personal accounts that some aspects of women's careers in neuroscience have improved over the past decade, other elements seem stagnant. The European Journal of Neuroscience remains committed to equity and will continue to feature the stories of women in neuroscience to inspire future generations.