The year 2025 marks a decade since the launch of the International Day of Women and Girls in Science (IDWGS), by the United Nations—a milestone in the ongoing effort to promote gender equality and empower women in STEM. While progress has been made, women and girls still face systemic barriers, biases, and underrepresentation in scientific fields.
A future driven by innovation and discovery must be inclusive. Yet, despite their talent and contributions, women remain underrepresented in STEM careers. Achieving gender equality in science isn’t just about fairness—it’s about unlocking the full potential of research, technology, and progress.
So, how do we close the gender gap?
At Data4Food2030, we proudly celebrate the achievements of women in STEM and remain committed to fostering diversity and inclusion. In honor of this day, we also take a moment to recognize and appreciate the remarkable women from our team, who have shared their thoughts, inspired by this celebration.
“Recognising and celebrating women’s and girls’ contributions in science in the 21st century is vital, and not only to address historical disparities (e.g., Rosalind Franklin 1920-1958) and deliver justice (Henrietta Lacks 1920-1951). There are significant differences in uptake of STEM subjects. For example, coding is still dominated by men and boys, despite Ada Lovelace’s work (1815-1852) but, even in traditionally female subjects such as dietetics, women ‘disappear’ from the workforce over time, with men taking up the majority of senior roles in academia and entrepreneurial endeavour. Child-bearing and alternative career pathways and measures of success are not the only factors in these stubborn differences and, if we are going to encourage girls and young women to take up challenging professions, for me showcasing success remains essential in driving participation and achieving equity.”
Dr. Siân Astley,Secretary General at EuroFIR AISBL
“From my point of view, the International Day of Women and Girls in Science is a powerful reminder of the essential role women play in shaping scientific advancements. This day inspires young girls to pursue their passions in STEM, paving the way for a future where gender equality flourishes in every laboratory and research facility throughout different sectors.”
Dolores Ordonez, Director at AnySolution
“In science, we are still dealing with the stereotype of a ‘nerd’ in a lab coat. But with the world, and beyond, as our oyster, there is something to research for everyone in so many different ways. I would therefore like to encourage all girls and women with a keen interest or passion in any topic to pursue a science career. More women in science means more diverse and better-quality science, contributing to a more inclusive and fair world for everyone.”
Dr. Kelly Rijswijk, Researcher on Social Innovation at Wageningen Social & Economic Research
As we celebrate this milestone, let’s continue working toward a world where talent, innovation, and discovery know no gender!
Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or Research Executive Agency. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.
