A collection of personal stories of the few women scientists who have achieved the honour of election to the prestigious National Academy of Sciences. Including several Nobel laureates, the career profiles and personal interviews have much to say to those struggling to overcome obstacles. From their passionate love of research to their struggle to balance the demands of home and career, the women share a great deal. At the same time, the portraits offer different insights about how being female has affected their careers. Among the eminent women interviewed are: Mary Ellen Avery; May R. Berenbaum; Mary K. Gaillard; Margaret Kidwell; Judith P. Klinman; Nancy Kopell; Marian Koshland; Jane Lubchenco; Pamela Matson; Cathleen Morawetz; Myriam Sarachik; Joan Steitz; and Susan Taylor.