Despite advances in gender equality, women continue to be underrepresented in scientific careers. In this article, we explore the vital role of women scientists as role models and how Women’s Day can inspire future women scientists.
Women Scientists: Role Models
Women scientists have played a crucial role in the history of science, but they remain a minority in many STEM disciplines. According to recent data compiled by UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization), only 28% of scientific researchers in the world are women. However, inspirational figures such as Marie Curie, Ada Lovelace and Jane Goodall have shown that women have an important place in the world of science.
Marie Curie
Ada Lovelace
Jane Goodall
Pioneer in Radioactivity Research
First Computer Programmer
Pioneer in Primate Research
Marie Curie, one of the most celebrated scientists of all time, was a pioneer in the field of radioactivity. Curie was born in Poland in 1867 and became the first woman to win a Nobel Prize. Also, she was the only person to win Nobel Prizes in two different scientific fields: physics and chemistry.
Her research on radioactive elements such as polonium and radium laid the foundations for modern radiotherapy and radiology.
Another of the most important women scientists was Ada Lovelace. Born in 1815 in the United Kingdom, she is considered the first computer programmer. Although she lived at a time when women rarely had access to formal education, Lovelace showed exceptional talent for mathematics and logic.
Working with mathematician Charles Babbage, Lovelace developed the first algorithm intended to be processed by a machine. She went on to lay the foundations of modern computing.
Jane Goodall is a British primatologist whose research revolutionized our understanding of primates, especially chimpanzees. Goodall is known for her pioneering work in Gombe Stream National Park in Tanzania. There, she studied the social behavior and life of chimpanzees in an intimate and detailed way.
Her discoveries have changed our perception of animals and inspired generations of scientists to study wildlife.
The underrepresentation of women in science reflects the persistent gender barriers and inequalities women face in the pursuit of scientific careers. Therefore, it is important for girls to know women scientists. Having role models encourages them to pursue scientific careers in the future if that is what they want.
Challenges for Women Scientists
Women scientists often face gender discrimination and bias in male-dominated fields. This makes their career advancement opportunities more difficult. In addition, balancing work responsibilities with family obligations can raise significant challenges. However, this is increasingly changing thanks to the new generations and all the achievements made in equality during the last decades.
How can we support women scientists? Supporting women scientists involves creating inclusive work environments free of gender bias and providing mentoring and networking opportunities. Girls should be encouraged to pursue STEM education and the achievements of women scientists should be highlighted.
In addition, it is essential to recognize and celebrate the achievements of women scientists at all levels. This includes highlighting his contributions at conferences, in academic publications, and in the media. Also, to provide awards and recognitions that value their work and impact on society.
The Impact on Science Education
At Casvi International American School, we recognize the importance of providing female role models in science education. By exposing our students to the stories of successful women scientists, we show them that they too can achieve great things in fields such as biology, physics, computer science and engineering.
It is crucial to inspire both boys and girls to study science careers from a young age. However, it is even more important to encourage the participation of girls in scientific careers to encourage diversity and innovation in these fields. Classrooms should not only teach mathematics, but also provide role models in different fields.
In our school, we receive visits from different male and female professionals to inspire our students. Professionals related to art, literature, science, security or sports visit our classrooms to showcase their respective careers. These experts advise students, provide information and, above all, inspire them. In addition, our Guidance Department always tries to help students in their academic and professional choices.
Women’s Day is an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of women in all areas of life, including science. At Casvi International American School, we take advantage of this date to highlight the achievements of women scientists and encourage the empowerment of our students.
