Only one female scientist named in GCSEs, research finds
Summary
Research by the University of Cambridge found Rosalind Franklin is the only female scientist named in UK GCSE and National 5 science exam specifications. The study showed most women scientists’ contributions are missing or not highlighted, despite their important achievements.Key Facts
- Rosalind Franklin is the only woman named among 86 scientists in UK GCSE and National 5 science exam specs.
- She was also one of only three women named among 181 scientists at higher-level science exams (A-levels and equivalents).
- The study looked at six UK exam boards covering biology, chemistry, physics, environmental science, geology, and astronomy.
- Franklin’s DNA X-ray image helped discover the DNA double helix structure.
- Other women scientists like Marie Tharp and Inge Lehmann are mentioned only in some geology exams.
- Many women’s major science contributions from the 1800s and early 1900s are not explicitly recognized in exam materials.
- Researchers recommend including more female scientists like Franklin, Marie Curie, and Lise Meitner in science exam content.
- Exam boards and education officials acknowledge the need to improve gender representation in science qualifications during upcoming reforms.
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