International Women’s Day at The Florey
Today, March 8 is International Women’s Day (IWD). It is a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. The day also marks a call to action for accelerating women’s equality.
IWD has occurred for well over a century, with the first gathering in 1911 supported by over a million people. Today, IWD belongs to all groups collectively everywhere. Today, Florey scientists share their perspectives and experiences as women in science.
Dr Chaitra Chandrashekar, Research Fellow, Insulin Peptides Group
Thinking about gender and inclusivity, what has been one of the most poignant moments in your career or life? Why was it so memorable?
Pursuing my higher studies in Japan, a non-English speaking country was both exciting and challenging. I faced opposition from my family and relatives because of the old-fashioned ideas about gender roles. Being a woman and also the first person in family who wanted to cross the country, it was tough, but I stayed strong and determined and obtained a scholarship. This led my parents to understand how important it was for me to chase my dreams and they stood for me. Their encouragement made a big difference, helping me break through barriers and aim for success in my education. My decision opened up a way for other girls in the family to aim high and pursue their goals, breaking the rules society sets for them. It proved that with support and determination, women can overcome challenges and achieve amazing things, no matter where they come from.
What’s is one achievement from a woman in science that has inspired you?
There is not just one, but several women around me from various parts of the world who inspire me at different stages of my life. From history till date, the challenges women face and their determination and passion to pursue their goal has always kept me going forward. I am mostly inspired by Sophia Jex-Blake, who was the first woman to qualify as a doctor in Britain. She encountered strong opposition and discrimination due to societal norms that barred women from entering the medical profession. Instead of accepting defeat, she rallied a group of like-minded women, forming the Edinburgh Seven, and, collectively, they continued to press for their right to education. Her legacy encourages women to embrace their ambitions, defy expectations, and persist in the pursuit of their dreams, reminding us that all barriers can be overcome through perseverance and a steadfast belief in the equality of opportunity.
Why is it important to recognise International Women’s Day?
International Women’s Day gives an opportunity to celebrate the accomplishments of women in diverse fields which inspires others to pursue their goals, while breaking stereotypes and promoting gender equality. It brings into the limelight many untold successful stories, contributions, and struggles of women worldwide. It creates an awareness of the challenges and issues women still face in various aspects of life, including education, employment, and leadership roles. The struggle for gender equality is ongoing and it is a reminder that society should come together in promoting equal opportunities, rights, and representation for women and that their voices are heard.
Miranda Marcon, Animal Technician, Core Animal Services
Thinking about gender and inclusivity, what has been one of the most poignant moments in your career or life? Why was it so memorable?
The most touching moment of my career and life was when I came to my job interview at The Florey for the position I currently hold and I was able to introduce myself for the first time in a work environment with my name and my preferred gender with total freedom. It was so important because I was finally able to heal the wound of being judged for expressing my preferred gender.
What’s is one achievement from a woman in science that has inspired you?
I am inspired by Lynn Margulis for her work on symbiogenesis. I felt great inspiration when she challenged established ideas in a male-dominated field, demonstrating her ability to redefine scientific paradigms.
Why is it important to recognise International Women’s Day?
The recognition of this day provides an opportunity to raise awareness in society about the persistence of gender inequality and the need to continue working towards equal rights and opportunities for all individuals, regardless of their gender.
Dr Ya Hui Hung, Senior Research Fellow, Oxidation Biology Group
Thinking about gender and inclusivity, what has been one of the most poignant moments in your career or life? Why was it so memorable?
The word ‘soroptimist’ means ‘the best for women’. I first learnt this word when I was awarded a Dame Margaret Blackwood Soroptimist Scholarship during my PhD. The scholarship was established in honour of Dame Margaret Blackwood, a distinguished botanist and geneticist, who challenged the conventional norm of her era to pursue a scientific career. She was a notable soroptimist who advocated for gender equality, and became the first female deputy-chancellor of the University of Melbourne. Receiving the scholarship was a powerful reminder of the trailblazing women advocates who fought for positive changes and greater gender equality and inclusion in all aspects of our societies. They are an inspiration and I hope through our collective efforts, irrespective of gender, we can achieve a more equitable world for all.
What’s is one achievement from a woman in science that has inspired you?
The discovery of nucleoside base modifications by Katalin Kariko enabled the development of life-saving mRNA vaccines against COVID-19. Her discovery extends beyond vaccine development, and it is now also applied to other mRNA therapeutics under development. This would not have been possible without her perseverance and dedication in the face of rejections and setbacks throughout her career. I find this very inspirational. Her achievement highlights the importance of resilience and perseverance in pursuit of knowledge and scientific progress.
Why is it important to recognise International Women’s Day?
Recognition of the International Women’s Day is important to celebrate women’s achievements across different spheres of society, and to raise awareness of the unconscious bias and gender gap that continue to exist. An equitable world needs a diversity of voices.
Women and Girls in Science 2024
International Day of Women and Girls in Science (IDWGS) was held on 11 February. To mark the occasion, we spoke to Florey PhD students Millicent, Chau and Alayna about what they’d like to see for women and girls starting in the science field.