Science holds the key to solving the major problems we face as a nation, such as global warming, finding cures for disease, and technological innovation, according to President Obama. That’s why we need ALL the scientists we can get. However, the challenge is getting more women to enter into the field, especially physics, and keeping them there.

According to a recent New York Times story, the number of women scientists has increased over the years, but women still only make up 6 percent of the professors in the field of physics. Many of those women find themselves faced with difficulties when trying to balance the demands of their science careers with having children. But President Obama may move to change this dilemma.

From the New York Times: 

Dr. Mason and other legal experts suggest that President Obama might be able to change things significantly for young women in science — and young men — by signing an executive order that would provide added family leave and parental benefits to the recipients of federal grants, a huge pool of people that includes many research scientists.

On Monday, President Obama signed two executive orders related to reshaping energy policy and spurring technology innovation. And while it’s reassuring he wasted no time signing orders that are on track to fulfill his campaign promises, it’s important to look ahead, recognize the importance of more women in the field of science, and take action on this order too. Because, this is also change we need. 

Creating more opportunities for women in science not only paves the way and offers role models for young girls who dream of becoming scientists in today’s classrooms; it also gives those girls who may not even be interested in science just yet, a very good reason to be.