February 11 commemorates the United Nations’ International Day of Women and Girls in Science, promoting awareness of the significant contributions women and girls make in the fields of science and technology. This day serves as a celebration of their accomplishments while advocating for increased representation in STEM fields, where their impact is often overlooked.
This year, Breast Cancer Trials, the largest oncology research group in Australia and New Zealand, is highlighting the remarkable women within their organization who are playing essential roles in saving lives through clinical trials. Their research focuses on breast cancer prevention and treatment, aiming to enhance survival rates and improve outcomes for women everywhere.
Currently, the organization is conducting six open clinical trials, of which five are led by female Study Chairs. This reflects the expertise and leadership of women in STEM and underscores the need for action. It is crucial for more women to contribute to transformative research that can positively influence the lives of other women.
The Gender Gap in STEM
Despite the critical importance of STEM disciplines to economic growth and innovation, gender disparity remains a pressing issue. Women are still underrepresented in science and technology worldwide, even as the demand for STEM skills continues to rise. Experts at a Study Australia Live event in 2024 predicted that by 2025, 90% of jobs will necessitate STEM skills.
However, data from the 2024 State of STEM gender equity research reveals that women represent only 37% of university enrollments in STEM fields. In the workforce, women account for merely 15% of the STEM workforce, and this representation diminishes significantly in senior positions, with only 23% of senior management roles and just 8% of CEO positions in STEM held by women.
These statistics highlight the necessity of initiatives like the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, which aims to motivate more women and girls to pursue careers in these vital fields.
Celebrating Seven Inspiring Women in Science
In honor of this significant day, Breast Cancer Trials reached out to women across their network, ranging from Professors to early-career researchers. Their experiences illuminate the diverse opportunities within STEM and illustrate why these careers are particularly rewarding for women.
Fran Boyle, a Medical Oncologist and Study Chair, underscores the imperative of inclusivity in STEM: “We cannot afford to lose any good idea or any clever person. It is crucial for women to participate in STEM as much as they aspire to.”
Dr. Sarah Zardawi, a Clinical Trial Fellow with Breast Cancer Trials, emphasizes the transformative influence of women in STEM: “Women bring unique skills and perspectives to their work. Attributes such as empathy, communication, balance, vulnerability, and generosity can motivate teams to achieve remarkable outcomes.”
Similarly, Dr. Marion Kuper-Hommel, a Specialist Medical Oncologist, highlights the benefits that women bring to patient care: “Women in science provide unique insights, merging empathy with evidence-based approaches.”
Professor Sherene Loi, a Medical Oncologist and Group Leader at Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, notes the innovative potential of women: “Roles in STEM empower women to break stereotypes, contribute to life-changing research, and seize leadership opportunities.”
Professor Prue Francis, Clinical Co-Lead of Breast Medical Oncology at Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, speaks to the necessity of diverse perspectives: “Increasing the number of women in STEM fields allows for a broader range of ideas and viewpoints.”
According to Clinical Research Associate Laura McCambridge, diversity is a driver of innovation: “Involving women in solving problems that specifically affect them is a logical approach.”
Lastly, Lesley Stafford, a Clinical Psychologist and academic psycho-oncologist, emphasizes the economic advantages: “STEM careers can be financially rewarding, which plays a role in closing the gender pay gap.”
Her message to younger women is clear: “Recognize your capabilities in mathematics and science, and don’t let gender stereotypes hold you back.”
Careers that Make a Difference
For the women spearheading clinical trials at Breast Cancer Trials, their work holds profound significance. They are not only enhancing medical knowledge but also saving lives and instilling hope in millions affected by breast cancer. By choosing a path in STEM, women can join a vital movement that fosters progress and develops solutions to some of the world’s most urgent challenges.
On this International Day of Women and Girls in Science, Breast Cancer Trials sends a powerful message: women belong in STEM, and their involvement is essential for the future of science, technology, and innovation. Therefore, if you are a woman contemplating a career in STEM, their encouragement is straightforward: pursue it wholeheartedly.
