Gender equality and leadership in radiation oncology research: a plea to women to come forward

This commentary paper describes a glass ceiling in the field of academia and specifically in radiation oncology research. Evidence from the literature and personal views are presented describing some of the issues leading to underrepresentation of women in academic leadership roles. The values and drivers for women in academia are discussed. Finally, a plea is made to women to come forward and consider leadership position and to academic institutions and funders of research to reconsider the traditional metrics of academic success.