This week's picks

As we've seen in previous articles and in our own experiences, implicit bias can cloud even those with the best of intentions. That's the thing about implicit bias -- we're not aware we are constantly engaging in it. But in this article by Scientific American , you can see how implicit bias affects us in our every day life. Sometimes we can witness it in action in something relatively inconsequential like a TV show, but sometimes we can see it rear its ugly head when determining something as important as career opportunities.

Nature published and article describing the wage gap between males in females in various areas of studies. The general trend seen was that in fields where the gender balance was more equal, the pay gap was less drastic. However, in male-dominant fields, the wage gap became more of a chasm. Read on about the evolution of the wage gap!

If you're a bookworm, have we got a goldmine for you! WomenYouShouldKnow published the Ultimate Women in Science Reading List! One-hundred and fifty titles of biographies, memoirs, you name it. Happy reading!

You know that feeling when you have an idea, and no one listens to you, but when someone else speaks up and repeats your idea, suddenly it's brilliant? Ok, take that feeling and magnify it by 100 because this sort of thing has happened with women scientists and their career-defining, discipline-altering works. The Independent goes on to outline such cases like Rosalind Franklin who originally discovered the double helix structure, only to have her recognition and credit usurped by Watson and Crick. While not surprised by the number of women similar circumstances have happened, to, you can't help but still feel stunned by how pervasive the down-playing of women's contribution to  science is and has been. This is worth the read. You might be surprised to see how many well-known monumental scientific breakthroughs were actually discovered by women.

Lastly, we have a quick read from Nature, describing the results from a study identifying factors that promote postdoctoral success. Two major findings were discussed: 1) join a lab that is lacking the expertise you gleaned from graduate school. In doing this, you are bringing a new, unique perspective to the lab! Go to where the need is greater! And 2) seek prolific postdoctoral mentors who have an extensive track record of training students. They've had the practice, which can only benefit you. These two factors were major contributions in predicting future success. Use them wisely! I know I will in the coming months when I'm on the market!

Have a great day, and see you in February!