A team of researchers has explored the challenges women face during polar fieldwork and published their findings in an insightful article. Their study, based on a survey of 324 female scientists, sheds light on the unique difficulties of conducting research in remote and demanding environments. A summary of the Article was written by Florina Roana Schalamon, Maria Dance and Marjolein Gevers and can be read at the website of the European Geosciences Union (EGU).
Polar fieldwork is essential for understanding our changing climate, but it still presents significant challenges for women. The blog post highlights these issues, from poor team dynamics and exclusion to inadequate preparation for personal needs like hygiene. Many women reported facing sexism and harassment, which further complicated their experiences in these remote and demanding environments. The authors stress the need for change, including better leadership practices, professional communication, and institutional support such as codes of conduct and harassment training. By fostering inclusive and respectful environments, fieldwork can become safer and more equitable, allowing everyone to contribute their best.
Read the full Blog Post on the EGU website, or dive into the original scientific publication here.
Ymke Lathouwers at the end of a drone flight to map Synndalen, Svalbard. Credits: Florina Roana Schalamon.
Media information
Written by Florina Roana Schalamon, Maria Dance and Marjolein Gevers.
Layout by the APRI-Media Team.
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About the scientific authors
Florina Roana Schalamon: PhD student at the University of Graz
Maria Dance: Research assistant at the Scott Polar Institute
Marjolein Gevers: PhD student at the University of Lausanne
