‘Pushing the limits’: experiences of women in tropical peatland research
S. A. Thornton![https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4497-7625](/media/client/orcid_16x16.png)
A Centre for Landscape & Climate Research, School of Geography, Geology and the Environment, University of Leicester, University Road, Leicester, LE1 7RH, UK.
B Borneo Nature Foundation, Jalan Bukit Raya 17, Palangka Raya, Central Kalimantan, 73112, Indonesia.
C Water Engineering Research Group, School of Engineering, Library Road, University of Warwick, CV4 7AL, UK.
D Department of Forestry, Universitas Tanjungpura, Jalan Imam Bonjol Pontianak, 78124, Pontianak, West Kalimantan, Indonesia.
E Department of Palynology and Climate Dynamics, University of Goettingen, Wilhelm-Weber-Strasse 2a, D-37073 Goettingen, Germany.
F Tropical Catchment Research Initiative (TROCARI) and Department of International and Strategic Studies, University of Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
G Department of Evolution, Ecology and Behaviour, Biosciences Building, Crown Street, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, L69 7ZB, UK.
H School of Geography, Seminary Street, University of Leeds, Leeds, LS2 9JT, UK.
I School of Biosciences, Division of Agricultural and Environmental Science, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington, LE12 5RD, UK.
J Institute of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, AB24 3UU, UK.
K Corresponding author. Email: s.thornton.p@gmail.com
Marine and Freshwater Research 71(2) 170-178 https://doi.org/10.1071/MF19132
Submitted: 12 November 2018 Accepted: 12 July 2019 Published: 24 September 2019
Abstract
Science fields, including tropical peatland research, are facing persistent under-representation of women. In this perspective piece, we explore, as women at different stages of our career, our personal experiences of ‘what is it like to be a woman working in tropical peatland science’? We collected our responses and analysed them thematically. Although we come from a variety of different backgrounds and cultures, our responses all dealt with common issues, such as from practical challenges of being women in the field, persistent sexism, issues of harassment to navigating the politics of research as a woman. The peat swamp is seen as a site of rebellion against traditional gender roles. Senior female role models were also vital for us all, which highlights that mentoring schemes in aquatic and wetland research, as in other science fields, need further consideration and investment. Continuing to improve gender balance is central to effecting a positive change in research culture, and we stress that the issue of the ‘bravado’ surrounding fieldwork needs to be further explored and challenged. By pushing these ‘limits’ both in the field and in the academy, we will not only produce a more equal and compassionate working environment, but also ultimately improve our science.
Additional keywords: conservation, ecology, tropics, wetlands.
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