Discussion

Gender equity in academia is a worldwide issue. In Brazil, women are underrepresented in science, and their participation decreases as the career progresses. Different explanations for the observed decrease include maternity or lower scientific abilities. I will present studies conducted by others and some numbers associated with the gender inequities in the Brazilian science and technology system. These studies point to a combination of barriers leading to the decrease of women as the career advances. The diagnoses may vary, and so possible improvements in the system, but it is urgent to face the problems and difficulties to overcome them. Academic institutions and individuals must embrace concrete solutions to promote equity in academia, and some of the activities towards improving the current situation will be discussed.