FROM THE MICROSCOPE TO THE TELESCOPE: THE PARTICIPATION OF BRAZILIAN WOMEN SCIENTISTS IN ASTROBIOLOGY

Abstract

Astrobiology is the science that studies the origin, evolution, distribution, and future of life on Earth and in the Universe. In Brazil, interest in research related to Astrobiology is steadily growing. However, there is no information available in the literature regarding the gender (male or female) and the profile of researchers in Astrobiology in the country. Thus, the aim of this article is to analyze the profile and contributions of Brazilian women researchers in Astrobiology, based on data from the members of the Brazilian Society of Astrobiology (SBAstrobio). The research is qualitative in nature, with an initial phase involving a document analysis of the researchers' Lattes CVs. This analysis revealed that 54% of the members of SBAstrobio are female. These researchers predominantly hold degrees in fields related to Biological Sciences and Astronomy and carry out their research projects in higher education institutions primarily located in the Southeast region of Brazil. In a second phase, content analysis and categorization of the research projects in which these scientists are engaged were conducted. From this analysis, five thematic categories emerged: extremophilic organisms as models for astrobiological studies; terrestrial analog environments for extraterrestrial settings; prebiotic chemistry and biosignatures; observational Astrobiology; and Astrobiology education. It is concluded that there is significant female representation in Brazilian Astrobiology, and the work developed by the scientists associated with SBAstrobio reflects the main research fronts investigated globally in Astrobiology, contributing both to the advancement of this science and to scientific development in general.