Female researchers are playing an increasingly important role in China's scientific research, but when it comes to being recognized at the top level they bang their heads against a "glass ceiling,” according to a new report by the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS).

The CAS report, released on Wednesday, said females make up one third of the total number of scientific researchers in China. However, only 5.5 percent of the 701 academicians in the Chinese Academy of Engineering (CAE) and only 5 percent of the 704 CAS academicians are female.

Only a small number of female scientists take part in major national research programs, according to the report.

It pointed out that of the 175 top scientists sponsored by the National Basic Research Program -- which covers the country's most strategic basic research areas -- only eight are female. In addition, no female scientists work on the 863 National High-tech Research and Development Program.

A CAS survey found that female scientific researchers have to do more than their male counterparts to reach the same level. Added responsibility in the home and in educating children is a key element hindering female scientists from making breakthroughs in this field, but gender discrimination is another.

The report suggested the government enact laws and regulations to ensure that there is no gender discrimination in scientific research and set up foundations to sponsor female scientists.

(Xinhua News Agency March 8, 2007)