{Reference Type}: Journal Article
{Title}: Do Microscopes Have Politics? Gendering the Electron Microscope in Laboratory Biological Research.
{Author}: Williams N;
{Journal}: Technol Cult
{Volume}: 64
{Issue}: 4
{Year}: 2023
{Factor}: 0.645
{DOI}: 10.1353/tech.2023.a910999
{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.