Encouraging women to pursue careers in science has long been one of Gladstone's top priorities. From our student outreach programs to our diversity leadership activities, we have created opportunities for young scientists to begin and continue their careers here.

And this year, Gladstone took a concrete step to alleviate one complication from their career path by providing childcare assistance to young families. The new plan is made possible through a grant of $250,000 from the Hearst Foundation and other contributions.

“The postdoctoral period is typically the most critical time in a young scientist's career. They are doing the work that will dictate their future opportunities and accomplishments,” said Gladstone president Robert W. Mahley. “However, biologically, it's also the time to make choices about starting a family. And, that’s often the time we lose young scientists–women and men–to other less demanding career options.”

The Gladstone plan calls for several phases. As a first step, Gladstone is introducing a short-term solution to provide financial assistance to help offset the costs of childcare for our students and staff. The program will provide a cash award of up to $5000 a year to qualified employees with children under 12 years of age. “This is a small, but important first step to creating a more family-friendly environment,” Dr. Mahley said.

He added that Gladstone is seeking longer-term solutions in partnership with other stakeholders in Mission Bay. “The greater Mission Bay area will be the home for more than 10,000 employees and more than 20 biotech and other companies,” he said.

This provides a need and an opportunity to work together to develop affordable childcare facilities in the immediate area.

“Any organization that joins this community will benefit from facilities and services that enable families to flourish,” he said. “Anything that improves our ability to compete effectively for a shrinking pool of qualified scientists and staff is worthwhile. Being family-friendly is not only the right thing to do, but will also lead to greater scientific excellence.”