What does a scientist look like? – Celebrating women in STEM during British Science Week
When you think about what a scientist looks like, who do you imagine? Are you picturing a man with a lab coat and goggles?
If that’s what you pictured – you aren’t alone. As part of British Science Week (8-17 March), we want to challenge stereotypes by introducing you to three women who work in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths).
According to the Higher Education Statistics Agency, only 31% of STEM students in higher education are women or non-binary. STEM subjects include, for example, physics, maths, computer sciences and engineering.
A lack of representation of women in STEM within higher education has an impact on the workforce in STEM industries. Women make up 26% of the STEM workforce. While there is a gradual increase of women working in STEM sectors, the current rate of change is insufficient to ensure an inclusive workforce in the future.
Statistics from the most recent labour market data shows that the STEM sector is continuing to grow at a rapid rate, with more than 1 million more STEM jobs created over the last 7 years.
Over the course of British Science Week, we want to introduce you to women currently working in STEM fields. As STEM Ambassadors they have all been involved in Academy9 events, showcasing the variety of STEM careers with the aim of building a legacy of STEM-related skills and inspiring the STEM Ambassadors of the future.
So keep an eye on our Academy9 latest news page this week to learn more about some of our wonderful female STEM ambassadors and how they ended up in a STEM career.
If you would like to hear more about Academy9 professionals and the work they do, please contact us.
Read the rest of our “What does a scientist look like?” blog series:
