Coming out as a male scientist in a man's world

Ben Barres was a scientist of considerable distinction in the field of neurobiology, with an unwavering curiosity concerning the role of the glial cells (largely neglected by brain research in favour of the neuron). Barres' interest in the underdog was not just reserved for the glia, it was also channelled into promoting women's largely unrecognised talent in science. Following the well-publicised Harvard president Larry Summers' boorish (and...