Seven Inspirational Quotes To Celebrate International Day of Women and Girls in Science

February 11 marks the United Nations’ International Day of Women and Girls in Science, a global reminder of the pivotal role women and girls play in shaping science and technology. It’s a day to celebrate their achievements and advocate for stronger representation in STEM fields, where their contributions remain underrepresented.

This year, Breast Cancer Trials, Australia and New Zealand’s largest oncology research group, is shining a spotlight on the incredible women within their organisation who are helping to save lives through clinical trials. Breast Cancer Trials conducts essential research focused on the prevention and treatment of breast cancer, with the ultimate goal of improving survival rates and outcomes for women everywhere.

Currently, the organisation has six open clinical trials, five of which are led by female Study Chairs. This testifies to the expertise and leadership of females in STEM and calls for action. More women can and should contribute to groundbreaking research that can transform the lives of other women.

The Gender Gap in STEM

While STEM disciplines are critical to economic growth and innovation, gender inequality continues to persist. Globally, women remain underrepresented in science and technology, even as demand for STEM skills grows. At a Study Australia Live event in 2024, experts forecasted that by 2025, 90% of jobs would require STEM skills.

Yet, according to the 2024 State of STEM gender equity research, only 37% of university STEM enrollments are women. In the workplace, women make up just 15% of the STEM workforce, and their representation dwindles further in senior roles, with only 23% of senior management and a mere 8% of CEO positions in STEM industries held by women.

As a result, these figures highlight the importance of initiatives like the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, which aims to inspire more women and girls to pursue careers in these fields.

Celebrating Seven Brilliant Women in Science

To mark this day, Breast Cancer Trials reached out to women across their network, from Professors to early-career researchers. Their stories showcase the broad opportunities in STEM and why it’s such a rewarding career for women.

Fran Boyle, Medical Oncologist and Study Chair, emphasises the importance of inclusivity in STEM. “We cannot afford to lose any good idea, or any clever person. So, we need to make sure women participate in STEM as much as they desire.”

Dr. Sarah Zardawi, Clinical Trial Fellow with Breast Cancer Trials, highlights the transformative power of women in STEM. “Women offer unique skills and perspectives in any area of work. Attributes of empathy, communication, balance, vulnerability and generosity can inspire teams to achieve great things.”

Similarly, Dr. Marion Kuper-Hommel, Specialist Medical Oncologist, stresses the impact of women on patient care. “Women in science bring unique perspectives – combining empathy with evidence-based care.”

Professor Sherene Loi, Medical Oncologist and Group Leader at Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, notes the role of women in driving innovation. “STEM roles empower women to challenge stereotypes, contribute to life-changing research, and offer opportunities for leadership.”

Professor Prue Francis, Clinical Co-Lead of Breast Medical Oncology at Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, highlights the value of diverse perspectives. “It is important to have more women in STEM fields, to allow the widest range of people and viewpoints.”

For Clinical Research Associate, Laura McCambridge, diversity sparks new ideas. “We need women to be involved with finding solutions for problems that affect women, it just makes sense.”

Finally, Lesley Stafford, Clinical Psychologist and academic psycho-oncologist, emphasises the economic benefits. “STEM careers can pay well, ultimately narrowing the gender pay gap.”

Her advice to younger women: “Don’t underestimate your abilities in maths and science or buy into gendered ideas.”

Careers that Save Lives

For the women leading clinical trials at Breast Cancer Trials, the work is deeply meaningful. They’re not only advancing medical knowledge but also saving lives and giving hope to millions of people affected by breast cancer. By choosing a career in STEM, women can become part of a movement that drives progress and creates solutions to some of the world’s most pressing challenges.

Breast Cancer Trials’ message this International Day of Women and Girls in Science is clear: women belong in STEM, and their participation is crucial to the future of science, technology, and innovation. So, if you’re a woman considering a career in STEM, their advice is simple: go for it.