Gendered expectations extend to science communication

Communicating complex science in a way that the public can understand is crucial. A new study from the University of Adelaide reveals that in scientific societies, women are shouldering the bulk of this work—often voluntarily—due to societal expectations and a sense of duty.

The study was conducted by the University of Adelaide's Professor Christine Beasley and Dr. Pam Papadelos together with Dr. Perry Beasley-Hall, Dr. Michelle Guzik and Associate Professor Anne Hewitt also from the University of Adelaide, as well as Dr. Kate Umbers from Western Sydney University.

"Scientific societies are generally defined as non-government, member-based, politically impartial, non-profit organizations that promote scientific research and raise the profile of the science community. They employ characterizations from and the expertise of the scientifically based members of the team," explains Professor Beasley.

"Our findings show that women in science communication roles within scientific societies often feel personally responsible for this work, despite it being unpaid and undervalued.

"Women reported that science communication had a limiting effect on their careers. While they found it personally rewarding, it was not recognized as significant for career advancement."

Dr. Papadelos describes this as a "paradox of relationality," where women experience both benefits and disadvantages—relationality meaning recognizing and prioritizing inherent social connection.

"The study outlines that while women gain personal satisfaction and emotional fulfillment from this work, it also takes away time from paid roles or tasks that would advance their careers," Dr. Papadelos says.

The team's research involved a nationwide mixed-methods approach, combining an online survey with about 50 respondents and in-depth interviews with six science communicators across Australia. The work is published in the journal Science Communication.

Key team findings include 28% of participants reported their work was not acknowledged academically, while 80% did not perceive their contributions as significant for career progression. Results showed that 85% of those who deemed the work "not at all" valuable were women; despite this, 84% of respondents said they would continue contributing to science communication efforts in the future.

Professor Beasley highlights how the gendered expectation for women to provide care and connection extends into workplace environments, reinforcing broader inequalities.

"In other words, this issue sheds light on how women's responsibilities for fostering relationships and communication impact their professional standing," she says.

Dr. Papadelos says that while relational work is widely recognized as important, it remains undervalued.

"It seems that women are not only taking on this work at home but also in the workplace—often without recognition, compensation, or career benefits," she says.

"The big-picture takeaway is that we need to value care and relationality as a society. This work serves a crucial function, requires specific skills, and shouldn't be taken for granted. The findings contribute to broader discussions on gender inequality and the undervaluation of relational labor, with national and international relevance."