Physicists are calling for greater recognition of the pivotal roles women played in shaping quantum mechanics, a field often dominated by male figures in historical accounts. The call to action comes amid growing awareness of the systemic biases that have historically marginalized women in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields globally.

The book "Women in the History of Quantum Physics: Beyond Knabenphysik," edited by Patrick Charbonneau et al. and due to be published by Cambridge University Press in 2025, aims to shed light on the often-overlooked contributions of women to the development of quantum theory. The book highlights the challenges these women faced, including gendered divisions of labor, pay gaps, and societal pressures to choose between career and family.

One example of a pioneering woman in science is Williamina Fleming, a Scottish astronomer who overcame significant adversity to make substantial contributions to the field. After being abandoned by her husband in the United States while pregnant, Fleming found work as a household employee for Edward Pickering, the director of Harvard College Observatory. Her diligence and sharp mind led to her being hired at the observatory, where she made significant discoveries, classifying thousands of stars.

Chien-Shiung Wu, another notable figure, experimentally confirmed quantum entanglement, a cornerstone of quantum mechanics. Despite her groundbreaking work, Wu often faced discrimination and a lack of recognition compared to her male counterparts.

These stories reflect a broader pattern of women in science experiencing their ideas being dismissed or attributed to male colleagues, facing prejudice based on gender, race, or class, and feeling pressured to conform to traditional gender roles.

The push for recognition extends beyond historical acknowledgment. Advocates hope that by highlighting the achievements and struggles of women in quantum mechanics, they can inspire future generations of women to pursue careers in STEM and address the ongoing gender imbalances within these fields. The effort also seeks to foster a more inclusive and equitable scientific community where contributions are valued regardless of gender.