Uncovering hidden women scientists in physics, Shohini Ghose discusses her book and reflects on their stories. From Shiprock's precise work to Bengali physicists' academic journeys, inspiring tales of cosmic ray research and the legacy of women physicists are explored, urging to break down cultural barriers in physics.
Shohini Ghose highlights the need for more female representation in physics history to inspire future generations of women scientists.
Bebha Chodori's groundbreaking contributions to particle physics, including the discovery of the neutrino, emphasize the importance of recognizing underrepresented female scientists.
Deep dives
Breaking Gender Bias in Physics
Shohini Ghose, a quantum physicist, recognized the lack of female representation in physics history, spurring her to uncover the stories of women in science. She delved into the history of Fairchild's semiconductor and the Navajo women who excelled at producing electronic chips, showcasing their innovation in the Apollo lunar program. Ghose's book 'Her Space Her Time' sheds light on underrepresented women in science, like Beba Chodori, who made significant contributions to particle physics.
Pioneering Particle Physics Discoveries
Bebha Chodori, a Bengali physicist, pioneered particle physics in the 1940s by discovering fundamental particles using innovative techniques to track cosmic ray particle showers. Despite limitations in funding and recognition, Chodori's groundbreaking work led to publications in prestigious journals like Nature. Her discovery of the neutrino in 1965, after working underground in gold mines, further solidified her legacy as a trailblazer in physics.
Inspiring Future Generations in Science
Shohini Ghose draws inspiration from historical female scientists like Bebha Chodori and envisions a future where women in science face fewer challenges. Reflecting on the resilience and strength of these pioneering women, Ghose emphasizes the importance of rewriting textbooks to include their achievements, fostering a supportive environment for future generations of female scientists to thrive and continue breaking barriers in the field.
When Shohini Ghose was studying physics as a kid, she heard certain names repeated over and over. "Einstein, Newton, Schrodinger ... they're all men." Shohini wanted to change that — so she decided to write a book about some of the women scientists missing from her grade school physics textbooks. It's called Her Space, Her Time: How Trailblazing Women Scientists Decoded the Hidden Universe. This episode, she talks to Short Wave host Regina G. Barber about uncovering the women physicists she admires — and how their stories have led her to reflect on her own.