Includes bibliographical references.

Introduction : setting the scene : a perspective on the contribution of women to scientific and technological advancement / Pooran Wynarczyk and Susan Marlow -- Encouraging women's entrepreneurship in the sciences : women in veterinary medicine / Colette Henry, Sarah Baillie and Lorna Treanor -- A skilling framework for women entrepreneurs in the knowledge economy / Patrice Braun -- Female entrepreneurship in the context of high technology business incubation : strategic approaches to managing challenges and celebrating success / Maura McAdam and Susan Marlow -- Analysing routes to starting and growing science, engineering and technology ventures : perceptions of female entrepreneurs / Lynn Martin -- An empirical investigation into the participation of women in industrial research and development (R&D) / Pooran Wynarczyk -- Analysis of women's participation in high technology patenting / Kordula Kugele -- Ingenious women / Deborah Jaffâe -- Celebrating achievement and innovation : case studies of successful women scientists / Pooran Wynarczyk and Susan Marlow.

It is almost universally accepted that scientific activities and discoveries are the most important sources of productivity growth and increased material welfare. Throughout history, women have been making significant contributions to scientific discoveries, innovation and inventions. However, they do not feature prominently in the inventive and innovative literatures except as exceptional examples. Current literature on scientific activities and discoveries, various facets of R&D or the management of technological change and scientific activities tends to ignore the gender dimension. Indeed, a review of the literature suggests that there is, in general, an implicit assumption that scientific activities and discoveries are largely the preserves of men perhaps reflecting the engineer-driven designs of manufacturing and male dominance of science/technology industries and occupations. Accordingly, to contribute to current research and debate, this book focuses on the challenges facing women who seek to create innovative entrepreneurial ventures, whilst also celebrating their scientific activities and contribution to technological advancement, society, and economic development as a whole. It aims to investigate and demonstrate the innovative and inventive achievements of women in the knowledge based society.