The drive to reduce the gender gap in the scientific world has taken a significant step forward in Catalonia, with more than 500 female researchers taking their expertise directly into schools to inspire girls to pursue careers in science.
This initiative, which coincides with the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, seeks to break gender stereotypes and encourage scientific vocations from an early age.
The #100tífiques initiative, created six years ago with the support of the Fundació Catalana per a la Recerca i la Innovació (FCRI) and the Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), has as its main objective to make visible the role of women in research and generate references for future generations.
With this purpose in mind, the half thousand researchers have managed to share their experiences and projects with more than 31,000 students between 11 and 13 years old in schools in Catalonia.
More than 500 women researchers eliminating gender barriers
The importance of these actions lies in the need to eliminate gender barriers and stereotypes that have historically limited the participation of women in the scientific field.
By providing role models and showcasing the diverse areas of research in which women are involved, it is hoped to inspire more girls to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).
In addition to activities in schools, other organizations are also helping to promote women’s participation in science.
The Pasqual Maragall Foundation and the Barcelonaβeta Brain Research Center (BBRC) join the commemoration of the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, highlighting the crucial role that women play in research and the need to eliminate gender discrimination in this field.
The fruits of the initiative
The success of these initiatives is reflected in the increased participation of women in research projects. The second call for Pasqual Maragall Researchers Programme grants has received a total of 40 applications, with more than 40% of the projects led by women.
This financial support and recognition of excellence in research are important steps in promoting gender equality in science.
The commitment to inclusion and equal opportunities is reflected in the geographic diversity of the applications, with projects coming from different regions of Spain and international collaborations.
The presence and leadership of women in science are essential to advance knowledge and innovation. By providing role models, financial support and professional development opportunities, it is hoped to build a more equitable and promising future for women in the field of scientific research.
