Do Microscopes Have Politics? Gendering the Electron Microscope in Laboratory Biological Research.

Abstract

Objects like microscopes are gendered depending on their context. The introduction of the electron microscope at Leeds University in early 1940s Britain was under the control of high-status physicists, most of whom were men, who regulated its access over and against biologists. Moreover, the microscope required physical strength more associated with men than women, combined with a sound knowledge of physics. This article explores the challenges women encountered including access to scientific instruments when entering post-World War II electron microscopy through Irene Manton's career. It combines techno-political and gendered perspectives on the history of women in science. In particular, the study invites gendered understanding of early biological electron microscopy, at a university world-renowned on the subject, through the lens of one capital intensive microscope.