Barriers for Black Scientists | NOVA

With the airing of "Forgotten Genius," the definitive account of the life of African-American chemist Percy Julian to date, it seems like an opportune moment to ask to what degree the racism Julian endured still holds sway in the scientific world, 32 years after his death. To what extent does the color of one's skin affect one's advancement—or lack thereof—in the sciences? And do we still need Percy Julian's example, marked by singular resolve, self-confidence, and ingenuity, to inspire young African-Americans to sidestep or squeeze through such barriers?

When . . .