Female Executives in Biotechnology: A Contextual Approach to Understanding Their Work Environments

Abstract

This research study used Q methodology to uncover the perceptions and
experiences of 25 women at the vice president level and above in 21
biotechnology companies in Massachusetts. Through personal interviews,
web-based interviews, and Q sorts the women provided a range of views
regarding their work environments. The study contributes to the
literature on subjectivity and organizational behavior by revealing the
participants' views of specific individual and group behaviors that
facilitate career advancement for women. It extends social role and
structural theories by adding to the literature on the role of context
in shaping professional experiences. The women identified teamwork and
integrity, politics and barriers to advancement, or expertise and
opportunity as being most characteristic of their organizational
cultures and environments.