Asking young children to draw a picture of a scientist very often results in drawings of stereotypical balding males in white coats holding flasks of chemicals. Whilst reality has moved on from such perceptions, there are still many obstacles – both institutional and personal – when trying to develop novel concepts for individual career paths.

We will invite experts in the field of career development and human resources, specifically in the area of meteorology and climatology, to discuss the best strategies to overcome traditional structures which might not be adequate anymore to attract a new generation to engage in a career in science.

Some of the questions that will be discussed are:
• Why is it still difficult to establish new working practices like e.g. shared jobs or – even more difficult – shared leadership positions?
• Why do many scientists find it difficult to balance their professional and personal life, and why is this still even more so a problem for female scientists?
• Is this related to the fact that fewer women choose a career in science?
• What is the role of networks in the development of a career?
• Is the culture in the meteorological field an obstacle?
• Should cultural aspects be taken into account in training programmes of organisations?

The main aim of this discussion is to support and advance the diversity of novel concepts for a career in science.

The panel members will give short introductory statements with their specific views on these questions and the discussion is then open to audience.

Confirmed panelists:
• Prof. Janet Barlow, Professor of Environmental Physics (SMPS), Director of the Centre for Technologies for Sustainable Built Environments (TSBE, SCME), University of Reading
• Ulrike Bromig, DWD Equal Opportunity Officer
• Prof. Averil Macdonald D.Univ,CPhys,FInstP,FRSA, Professor of Science Communication at the University of Reading
• Alan Twyford, Senior Human Resources Partner, University of Reading