Wikibomb to boost online role models for women scientists

The Australian Academy of Science is holding the Women of Science Wikibomb as part of the coming National Science Week activities, and interested individuals are invited to help create and improve the Wikipedia pages of Australian female scientists.

Nancy Millis Award winner Professor Emma Johnston has called on the Australian public to help improve the online presence of women in science as part of the academy’s Wikibomb.

Professor Johnston, a marine ecologist from UNSW, said: “Wikipedia pages are the first place most students look. If there’s not enough information on there about Australian women in science and their achievements, there’s a risk they will go unnoticed.

“We need to tell the stories of Australian women scientists online to bring more strong role models to girls, to inspire the next generation of scientists and to help Australians of all ages understand the contribution these scientists have made.

“If you can’t connect with the role models that are out there then you might not be able to imagine yourself in a science career. That’s such a shame because it’s such a fun and rewarding job.”

Many Australian women scientists, including those who have made significant contributions to Australian science, have no Wikipedia page or a short ‘stub article’ of less than 100 words.

The Wikibomb will be held both online and at a physical event at the Shine Dome in Canberra on 14 August. To get involved, visit the Wikibomb registration page. Registrations close Friday 1 August.