International day of women and girls in science

The International Day for Women and Girls in Science is an occasion to reflect on the status of gender diversity in the field of science, where women remain significantly underrepresented in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields across the globe. 

The latest statistics from the United Nations highlight the persistent gender gaps in STEM education and employment. Data reveals that women face barriers from the earliest stages of their academic journey, with fewer girls pursuing STEM subjects in schools. This trend extends to higher education and research, where women encounter challenges in accessing resources, mentorship, and opportunities for career advancement. As a consequence, the global scientific community loses out on diverse perspectives and talent, hindering the full realisation of its potential for addressing complex challenges, including climate change solutions.

While progress has been made, there is still work to be done to overcome gender stereotypes and biases that persist in the scientific community. The International Day for Women and Girls in Science serves as a call to action for governments, institutions, and individuals to actively promote and support the involvement of women and girls in all aspects of scientific exploration and discovery, contributing to a more inclusive and diverse scientific landscape that benefits from the wealth of talent on offer from all genders. 

To celebrate the achievements of our talented women at C3, we asked three accomplished individuals working on various projects to combat climate change to share their insights and experiences in the field of science with us.

Nature Poddar

With a PhD in chemical engineering (University of Melbourne), Dr Nature Poddar manages multifaceted research projects in carbon capture technology and microbial-based innovations that contribute to sustainable solutions for mitigating the impacts of climate change. 

After completing a biotechnology degree in India in 2012, she sought career advice from a senior mentor, hoping for inspiration. Instead, she was advised to focus on marriage and teaching. Crushed and uncertain about her future, Poddar refused to let these expectations define her and pursued a Master's degree at IIT Kharagpur (India).

“Reflecting on this journey, I'm proud I didn't let societal expectations dictate my path. I'd tell my younger self that she's stronger than she thinks.

To those who doubted her, Nature would express that "a girl has much more to offer than just marriage – she can contribute significantly to society, addressing global challenges and making a positive impact on the world."

Nature believes it's a tough show for anyone pursuing a career in STEM. 

“We're all pushing hard to climb that academic or research ladder, and it's no easy victory, no matter your gender.”

However, from her observations some females feel discouraged to pursue science due to lack of support.

“A single negative comment shouldn't make us doubt our strength. Instead of fixating on external changes, let's focus on believing in our abilities, recognizing our resilience, and prioritising self-love without succumbing to societal expectations.”

Paige Strudwick

Paige Strudwick is a Postdoctoral Research Associate with the Future Reefs Research Group and Coral Nurture Program, working to optimise processes in identifying heat-resilient corals in the Great Barrier Reef. “Coral reefs are disappearing before our eyes and facing unprecedented mounting stressors that threaten their existence” explains Paige. “My work is important because oceans support life on Earth and coral reef ecosystems play an integral role in the health of our oceans.”

Paige fell in love with science from an early age after watching David Attenborough documentary marathons, with a dream of pursuing a career in Veterinary Medicine or becoming a National Geographic photographer.

During her undergraduate studies in biology at the University of Nottingham, Paige spent a year on exchange at the University of New South Wales and fell in love with marine biology and the world of coral microbiomes. 

On returning to the UK, she was introduced by a previous UTS employee to Professor Justin Seymour, who would go on to become her PhD co-supervisor. 

After completing her PhD, she accepted a Postdoctoral Research Associate position with Dr Emma Camp and the Coral Nurture Program.

Now based in Far North Queensland, Paige thinks “the young kid who was watching endless nature documentaries would have her mind blown that I get to help protect coral reefs and explore the oceans on a daily basis.”

Paige believes that more efforts should be made to encourage girls to engage with science from an early age.

“Children ask the best questions that we sometimes overlook as researchers. We should fuel that curiosity and encourage young scientists to pursue their curiosity and passions.”

Paige hopes her work will contribute toward preserving the Great Barrier Reef ecosystems, ensuring the health of our oceans are preserved for generations to come. 

Kira Picknell

PhD candidate Kira Picknell is researching ways to reduce methane emissions from livestock using microalgae-enriched feedstocks.

In an existing partnership with UTS and Young Henry’s Brewery in Newtown, a large vat of microalgae installed on the brewery floor captures carbon emissions produced during the beer fermentation process. Breweries also generate substantial waste in the form of spent grain. Kira explains that by adding microalgae to the grain waste to create a sustainable feedstock, the project aims to repurpose an industry's waste stream into a valuable tool for farmers to reduce methane emissions from their livestock.

In hindsight, Kira wishes that she’d been aware of the vast career opportunities within STEM earlier on in her life. "I could have expanded my horizons sooner.”

“Through my experience, I found that my involvement in STEM was heightened through interactions with other women in the field.”

She believes that celebrating and showcasing the remarkable achievements of women in STEM is crucial.

“Personally, I find it inspiring and motivating to hear about these accomplishments, and I believe my younger self would have felt the same way.”

For women interested in pursuing a career in science, she suggests getting proactive and engaging with people in the field you're curious about.

“Although it may seem daunting initially, asking questions and expressing curiosity can open up opportunities and expose you to the multitude of options available!”