CWAST: Supporting women scientists in China 

Despite the narrowing gender gap in the promotion of Chinese researchers, many women still encounter a “Glass Ceiling” in their career progression, facing significant barriers to senior positions (Gender in the China Research Area, Elsevier and the National Science Library of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, 2023). Women researchers receive only 10% of funding and represent only 5% of academic staff at the Chinese Academy of Sciences (South China Morning Post, July 2021).   

Our Mission

To address these challenges, the Elsevier Foundation has partnered with the China Women’s Association for Science and Technology (CWAST). Together, we are committed to supporting early-career female researchers in China through targeted initiatives that provide discipline-specific networks, resources, and training.

About CWAST

Founded in 1993 as the China Women Scientists Network, China Women’s Association for Science and Technology (CWAST) is a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting and empowering women scientists in China. As a member of the United Nations Committee on the Status of Women, CWAST enhances the role and status of women in science through professional growth initiatives, educational programs, and scientific forums. Under the leadership of Professor Hongyang Wang, CWAST promotes both domestic and international collaboration among women scientists.

What We Do

Our partnership focuses on:

• Supporting Early-Career Researchers: Providing necessary resources and training to foster growth.
• Facilitating Networking: Creating discipline-specific networks for knowledge exchange.
• Empowering Through Workshops: Conducting Women in Science workshops in conjunction with Elsevier conferences.

How We Deliver

Starting in July 2024, we will initiate various programs and workshops aimed at empowering female scientists and helping to narrow the gender disparity in science research in China.

• Collaborative Workshops: We will conduct Women in Science workshops alongside Elsevier conferences in China.
• Resource Provision: Offering access to subject-matter experts, research materials, and funding opportunities.
• Networking Opportunities: Organizing forums and events that facilitate collaboration among women scientists.

Upcoming Events

We are thrilled to announce three pilot Women in Science workshops for 2024, along side Elsevier conferences in China:

• July: CWAST-Elsevier Foundation Women in Science Workshop at Elsevier’s ISPT conference in Zhengzhou, Henan Province.
• September: ECSA 60 Workshop on coastal restoration solutions at the Sheraton Grand Hangzhou Binjiang Hotel in Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province.
• December:  Ecological Summit 2024 at North China University of Water Resources and Electric Power in Zhengzhou, Henan Province.

Get Involved

Join us in our mission to empower women in science. Learn more about our initiatives, participate in upcoming events, and support our cause. Together, we can break barriers and build a brighter future for women in science.