There has never been a better time to for a handbook focused on women in science. In May 2016, the American Association for the Advancement of Science posted an article titled “We need to do more for women in science.” This book describes the importance of carving out spaces for women in science and includes the unique strengths of women scientists as well as challenges they tend to face. Studies of women leadership consistently illustrate that women demonstrate strengths in leadership across communities and have skills in bringing together groups towards a common goal. The role of women in context is an important one in science, but has not been the focus of previous texts about careers in science or medicine.

This first of its kind book develops an understanding of research careers occurring within a greater community of colleagues and academicians as well as the fact that women themselves lead within a group, a community, and a context. The book focuses on women who are pursuing research careers in academic medicine with specific emphasis on women in science and research as well as lessons learned from fellow female scientists. It also provides key strategies and skills centered on the social ecological model as well as a sense of community with other women scientists. The book is organized thematically using the social ecological model as a framework in which we all live and complete our work.

Women Rock Science is a valuable resource that can be used in a variety of settings. It is beneficial for University classes as well as lab group meetings. It also places an emphasis on community and can be shared with one’s community of mentors, mentees and colleagues.