Women in Biotechnology [antikvár]

ForewordJohannes KlumpersBiotechnologies, such as genetic engineering, cloning and biodiversity, raise many legal and ethical concerns, so it is important that people understand these issues and feel able to express their opinions. This is why the European Commission has been, for a number of years, supporting actions to improve communication among scientists in these diverse areas.The project 'Women in Biotechnology' (WONBIT), financed under the 6th Framework programme of the European Commission, is an excellent example of what can be done to target opinion-formers such as scientists, economists and lawyers in bottom-up activities, and to encourage a debate on gender issues triggered by developments in the life sciences.WONBIT gave rise to a successful international conference highlighting the importance of adopting good practices and ethical considerations in parallel with the rapid pace of progress in biotechnology - from a woman's point of view. In particular, the conference addressed women in decision-making positions in biotechnology with specific reference to scientific excellence, social competencies and management qualities as well as issues relating to environment, society and the younger generation.But it did not stop there: a key part of the conference was dedicated to stimulating public debate among non-specialists, which has led to a number of recommendations to policy-makers on better communication in biotechnology, on taking better account of the gender aspects of research, and on involving more women in the decision-making process that surrounds developments in biotechnology.I am sure that this pubUcation on the outcome of the WONBIT conference will contribute to enhancing the significance of women's role and presence in biotechnology, as well as changing outdated attitudes that view biotechnology as a simple production tool to a view that recognises its use and development to be both environmentally sustainable and socially acceptable.Head of Unit 'Scientific Culture and Gender', European Commission, DG Research