It's estimated Australia could lose up to 40 per cent of its cancer research workforce unless changes are made to address gender equality
A national survey of 200 female researchers found numerous career barriers are pushing people out of the sector.
The study, from the Australian Cancer Research Foundation and biotech firm Amgen, showed more than half of the researchers faced gender discrimination, while 90 per cent identified greater need for cancer research specifically for women.
When asked about the strongest means for retention, 75 per cent said the availability of supportive mentors was important and 68 per cent called for flexible work options.
Australia was losing brilliant scientists because of systemic issues that needed fixing, ACRF chief executive Kerry Strydom said.
"This study paints a clear picture: many of the incredible women dedicated to finding better options for treatment, detection and prevention of cancer are facing uphill battles that hinder their progress and even force them out of the field," she said.
Award-winning scientist and Macquarie University leader Noushin Nasiri said the consequences for the quality and impact of cancer research due to the loss of female researchers would be significant.
"Women have different problem-solving perspectives and usually have a strong focus on patient-centred care which is absolutely critical for the cancer field," she said.
"It's not a 'nice to have' - women are fundamentally needed in research and can significantly change and shape the way we do science to ensure it serves people."
Career breaks due to maternity leave and a lack of flexibility following their return to the workplace were also driving women out mid-career.
Female researchers who take maternity leave struggle because of the gaps in publication and research history, Amgen Australia country medical director Cae Tolman says.
He said the survey revealed examples of women having to provide their baby's birth certificate in grant applications to justify their maternity leave.
"Very few roles in the sector are tenured and the saying is 'you're only as good as your most recent grant and publication'," he said.
"Every woman who leaves cancer research is a potential breakthrough lost."
Research is also highly competitive, with many scientists seeking the same funding grants to keep their projects alive.
"(Survey respondents) felt like career breaks could be really detrimental to them in the future and their competitiveness for funding," ACRF general manager Carly du Toit said.
In response to the survey, ACRF and Amgen have launched initiatives to help support women in cancer research.
This includes a three-year grant specifically for women in cancer research, worth $100,000 per year, who are part of an ACRF-funded project.
They are also launching of an industry-specific webinar series designed to provide positive role models, guidance and support for women to further their careers in cancer research.
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