Life with the Boys: One Woman’s Life in Chemistry

Description

In Life with the Boys we learn the wonderful story of Dr. Phyllis R. Brown, an accomplished researcher in the field of analytical chemistry who rose to prominence during an era when the boy’s clubs of science tended to exclude women. Despite experiencing disloyalty, research theft, and social bias, she found allies and avenues to achieve her goals, helped no doubt by (mostly genteel) responses to obstacles formed by steely determination, creativity, and integrity. She worked tirelessly for her students, addressing obstacles to their success as she always considered mentoring her graduate students and colleagues to be as important as her research practice. Keen to attract women to the sciences, she developed networking groups and opportunities for them as they pursued their education and entered the workforce.

As a wife, mother, and grandmother, Phyllis proves a woman can have the best of all worlds. She shows how it takes courage, determination, organization, gratitude and a healthy dose of chutzpah to navigate life personally and professionally.  Whatever your field and whether you are just starting your career or an established professional, Phyllis demonstrates how using analytical problem solving, common sense, humor, and resolve can help you achieve your dreams.

About the Author

Phyllis R. Brown, PhD, Professor Emerita of Chemistry at the University of Rhode Island is credited with over two hundred articles in scientific journals and known as “the Mother of High Pressure Liquid Chromatography.” She wrote five books, served as editor of many publications, was a gifted teacher and advisor to her graduate students. In retirement she dedicated herself to her husband, her many circles of friends in science and the community, and her children and their families.