Film screening and discussion of ‘Picture a Scientist’ to consider workplace, gender discrimination in the sciences

The College of Health and Human Sciences is hosting two events relating to the recent film “Picture a Scientist,” a documentary chronicling workplace discrimination faced by women in the sciences. The film, in part responding to an MIT study conducted in the late 1990s and including stories from junior professionals, outlines the ongoing and systemic challenges faced by women working throughout the field.  

Including a screening of the film and a panel discussion, the events are virtual, without charge and open to anyone. Registration for each event is required.

Screening of “Picture a Scientist”

“Picture a Scientist,” an official selection for the 2020 Tribeca Film Festival, features professors Nancy Hopkins, Raychelle Burks and Jane Willenbring. Successful researchers from a variety of fields, each woman recounts their experiences with workplace discrimination. Ranging from brutal harassment to ongoing, subtle slights, these stories represent the depth of gender and sexual discrimination faced by women working in science. Moving from cramped laboratories to spectacular field stations, the film showcases luminaries from an assortment of scientific fields who provide new perspectives on how to make science itself more diverse, equitable and available to everyone.

This screening of “Picture a Scientist” is free and open to anyone. Upon registration, guests will first receive an informational email followed by a link to watch the film from the location of their choice. The link will be active from 7 p.m. Nov. 5 until 7 p.m. Nov. 8. Registration is required and due before Nov. 2. The film is 93 minutes long, plus credits.

Live panel discussion of “Picture a Scientist”

A virtual panel discussion of “Picture a Scientist” will take place from noon to 1 p.m. on Nov. 12. Registration is required and available online. Deadline for registration is Nov. 11. Watching the film is not necessary to participate in the discussion.

Moderated by Margo Monteith, professor of psychological sciences, a panel of women from the College of Health and Human Sciences will discuss the movie and share experiences from their own careers. The panel will feature these speakers:

• Marion K. Underwood, dean of the College of Health and Human Sciences and professor of psychological sciences.
• Jennifer M. Simpson, clinical professor of audiology.
• Sandra Sydnor, associate professor of hospitality and tourism management.
• Anita Tuttle, director of information technology for the College of Health and Human Sciences.

The panel discussion is a part of Purdue University’s 2020 Virtual Homecoming, Giant Leaps @ Home, taking place Nov. 9-14.

Questions about either event can be directed to Casey Dexter at ccdexter@prf.org.

Writer: Christy McCarter, mccarter@purdue.edu