Chapter 9 Celebrating achievement and innovation: Case studies of successful women scientists

Abstract

Purpose – This chapter outlines and describes a number of case studies detailing the experiences and activities of individual women scientists, innovators and entrepreneurs who have made substantial contributions to particular fields of science, engineering, technology and mathematics (STEM) activities.

Methodology/approach – The chapter employs a qualitative case approach to offer detailed insight into the experiences of successful women entrepreneurs.

Findings: These case study reports describe the tactics, strategies and achievements of successful female innovators within the STEM sector.

Research limitations/implications – Although offering rich descriptions of the achievements of women innovators, these cases cannot be generalised. However, they do illustrate that woman have a notable and meaningful presence within the field of entrepreneurial STEM innovation.

Practical implications – These cases can act as role model illustrations to encourage other women to act as STEM innovators and entrepreneurs.

Social implications – Indicative that despite gendered ascriptions which limit women's engagement with STEM subjects they can, and do, offer a critical contribution to innovation and entrepreneurial activity within the field.

Originality/value of chapter – A relatively rare celebration of women's achievement within the STEM sector.

Citation

Wynarczyk, P. and Marlow, S. (2010), "Chapter 9 Celebrating achievement and innovation: Case studies of successful women scientists", Wynarczyk, P. and Marlow, S. (Ed.) Innovating Women: Contributions to Technological Advancement (Contemporary Issues in Entrepreneurship Research, Vol. 1), Emerald Group Publishing Limited, Leeds, pp. 183-207. https://doi.org/10.1108/S2040-7246(2010)0000001014