In an Indian study (Subramanian, 2007), among the 289 scientists holding a regular position in any one of the seven institutes under consideration, a mere 35 (12.11 per cent) were women. There were more women in the biological sciences than in mathematics and physics; not even one of the many chemistry departments. Most of the women scientists said their parents themselves were well-educated and were very supportive of the career ambitions of their daughters. 21 of the 44 (47.72 per cent) women had a sister who was equally qualified and well placed, and 18 had a brother who was equally qualified, whereas only five (20 per cent) out of the 25 men had a sister equally qualified. This study challenges the notion prevalent among scientists that talent for doing science is inherent in a person, and if it is there it will reveal itself irrespective of the external conditions.