Guided by curiosity, driven by the excitement of change
We are celebrating our Female Researchers on International Day of Women and Girls in Science.
On 11 February, International Day of Women and Girls in Science is celebrated globally. Nine years ago, in 2015, the United Nations called for this day to promote gender equality, to highlight achievements, to advocate for inclusion and to inspire future generations of women and girls to pursue careers in STEM fields and science.
At the Robinson Research Institute, we are proud to have an abundance of female (and male!) trailblazers in their fields. We interviewed five outstanding researchers to get their unique perspectives on the matters surrounding International Day of Women and Girls in Science.
We have spoken to researchers in different stages of their careers and with expertise in vastly different topics, from defining biological processes of early pregnancy and understanding the male contribution to healthy conception (hello equality!), to unravelling genetic drivers of Type 1 Diabetes in children and revolutionising the diagnosis of endometriosis.
Despite those differences, there are several traits they have in common; they are guided by curiosity, driven by the excitement of uncovering the ‘new’ and motivated by the positive impact they can have on the health of our society.
"To be at the cutting edge of discovery and innovation (…) and to have the satisfaction of improving people’s lives at home and around the world – I can’t think of a better job."Prof Sarah Robertson AO, Reproductive Immunology group
“I have the possibility to re-write textbooks and change how society views men, and their role in the preconception period. That’s exciting!”Dr Nicole McPherson, Senior Research Fellow, Male Reproductive Life Course group
“(…) After many years, I have finally landed on my feet, with a great mentor and boss (…). Winning last year’s Eureka Prize for Innovative Use of Technology was incredible!”Dr Jodie Avery, Senior Research Fellow, IMAGENDO group
“Believe in your potential, let your curiosity guide you and never underestimate the impact you can make!”Dr Ying Wong, Post-doctoral researcher, Molecular Immunology group
“Surround yourself with people who believe in you (…) and you can achieve great things.”Alison Deslandes, PhD candidate, IMAGENDO Group