[Gender equality activity in the Bioimaging Society]

Area of Science:

• Scientific societies and professional organizations
• Gender equality in STEM
• Bioimaging and anatomy

Context:

• The Bioimaging Society joined the Japan Inter-Society Liaison Association Committee for Promoting Equal Participation of Men and Women in Science and Engineering (EPMEWSE) in 2005.
• The society established a Gender Equality Committee to address gender disparities.
• The Japanese Association of Anatomists (JAA) has a significant female membership (over 400) but its gender equality initiatives are nascent.

Purpose:

• To promote gender equality within scientific societies.
• To increase women's participation and representation in leadership roles.
• To foster awareness and cooperation among members regarding gender equality issues.

Summary:

• The Bioimaging Society's Gender Equality Committee implemented policies and educational activities aligned with EPMEWSE guidelines.
• These efforts resulted in a rise in women's participation, with the number of female officers increasing from 2/40 in 2005 to 5/44 in 2013.
• The JAA is encouraged to leverage its substantial female membership to drive similar advancements in gender equality.

Impact:

• Demonstrates a successful model for increasing women's representation in scientific societies through dedicated committees and engagement.
• Highlights the potential for the JAA to significantly enhance gender equality by mobilizing its female members.
• Contributes to broader efforts for gender equity in STEM fields.