February 11, 2025, marks the 10th anniversary of the International Day for Women and Girls in Science. The event was established in December 2015 by the United Nations General Assembly to recognize and celebrate the vital role that women and girls play in science and technology.1
Over the past decade, communities around the world have taken steps toward achieving gender parity in the scientific community. During this period, however, there has been little statistical change globally, with UNESCO reporting the global share of female researchers as having increased from 28.4% in 2015 to 31.7% in 2024.2,3 While the myriad contributions of female scientists and STEM students continue to improve our lives every day, these figures serve as a reminder that there is more work yet to do.
Full participation of women and girls in science leads to more comprehensive research, inspires innovation, and drives a diverse and talented STEM workforce that produces accessible solutions for all. In support of this year’s theme of ‘Unpacking STEM careers: Her Voice in Science’, we spoke to eleven inspirational women at Veranova to hear about what drove them to pursue a STEM career, and what they find most fulfilling about their role.
“As a nurse in my home country, I witnessed firsthand the impact of medicine on patients. Joining Veranova has allowed me to contribute to the development of treatments that truly make a difference in patients’ lives. Additionally, being a woman in this field is especially meaningful to me because I know how important it is to have diverse voices shaping the future of healthcare. Women bring invaluable perspectives that not only drive innovation but also ensure that medical solutions are designed to address the needs of everyone, regardless of gender or background.”
“When I was 12, I was diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukaemia. STEM saved my life, and as I got older, I wanted to give something back. Eventually, I became interested in drug development. This has led me to my current role at Veranova, where I support customers to develop life-changing pharmaceuticals that directly benefit patients.”
“When I was in high school, I applied for a four-week summer intensive science program for soon-to-be seniors. It was highly selective, but I persevered and was given a spot. That kickstarted my love for chemistry. For me, it was never a question of if I wanted to go into the sciences, only a question of which science to study. In the end, chemistry, especially organic chemistry, proved to be the best combination of challenge and reward.”
“Occupational Hygiene pulls in on many skills, but the science bit was the main draw for me. I did a year in industry during my degree at a Japanese car manufacturer and this began the spark of interest with potential exposures to paints, glues, welding fume, noise and lots of ergonomics! Its all about using science to prevent occupational disease. I’m proud of the fact that as a Women I’ve worked on oil rigs, remote islands, and down mines. I love working in the pharmaceutical and fine chemicals industry as its all about the science!
“My passion for science was sparked by a deep curiosity about how tiny molecules could transform lives. From the moment I stepped into the world of pharmaceutical research, I knew I wanted to be part of something bigger—developing medicines that heal and improve lives. The precision, innovation, and impact of this field inspire me every day, and I feel privileged to contribute to advancements that make a real difference in global healthcare.”
“Science holds a power of explanation and innovation that inspired me to work in chemistry. In high school, I started to really see how science explains the details of our visually observable world as well as the underlying phenomena that scientific tools can illuminate and utilize. For example, we can image the nanostructure of a butterfly’s wing that causes the colors that we see. These moments of insight motivated me through to my professional career where I’ve been part of many fascinating research projects and critical analytical method development. My interest was greatly cultivated through outstanding teachers, mentors, and peers, many of them women. Inclusive representation helps to maximize current scientists’ potential, encourage new interest, and support general knowledge. It’s part of a passion of mine toward promoting scientific literacy. Critical thinking with an understanding of science is ever important in our society, and the more approachable and inclusive these sciences are, the better for all.”
“As a first generation Asian American, the daughter of refugees from the war in Cambodia, my parents made sure I had every opportunity to advance in my education and pursue a career in life sciences. Being part of the women who make up nearly half of the CDMO industry, I know we are creating a ripple of positive affect. My role in Quality Management System/Quality Systems has given me the capability to improve the quality of patients’ lives. I’d say an environment without remedial advancements is a community devoid of applied knowledge and I’m grateful for an opportunity to be part of an innovative, proactive team. Someone once told me, ‘Quality is not a destination, but a journey,’ and I believe that wholeheartedly. Doing the right thing, helping my peers, maintaining a strong work culture, and reminding people of the impact of their actions is what I believe in.”
“Chemistry has always been my passion as far as I can remember – the ability to mix different materials together and produce a new outcome was always fascinating starting in the kitchen with colorful vegetables and citrus fruits. This evolved to my love for organic chemistry and the exciting area of drug discovery. I was fortunate to be encouraged by family and my peers and was committed to learning as much as I can in medicinal chemistry and drug discovery culminating in my Ph.D. in medicinal chemistry. I wanted to positively impact healing of diseases. When I started my professional career I soon realized how rewarding it is to successfully scale up and manufacture active ingredients. At Veranova (formerly Johnson Matthey Health) I have had the opportunity to refine my skills and contribute to our customer’s commitment to combatting diseases for improved quality of life for patients.”
“I believe anyone who stops learning is old whether they have lived for twenty or eighty years. Anyone who keeps learning stays young. Science always feels energetic, enthusiastic, and innovative to me. As representatives and role models, women’s perspectives, and approach to solving scientific problems and finding creative solutions, are essential to bringing about global change. This diversity means greater innovation and stronger results, which benefit everyone; especially when we make sure that other women succeed along with us.”
“Science has always been my passion. What inspires me most are the women who have contributed to it, both historically and contemporarily. Their pioneering efforts, enduring legacies, and ongoing achievements have proven that diverse perspectives drive meaningful innovation and progress. To any young girl or woman who wants to pursue science, it is important to remember: science sees no gender bias and offers an incredible creative adventure to anyone who seeks it passionately.”
“I chose to pursue a career in science because I believe in the transformative power of curiosity and innovation. Science is where discovery meets purpose, drives progress and creates solutions that improve lives. Empowering women in science goes beyond representation—it’s about shaping an inclusive, equitable, and groundbreaking future. As a woman in leadership, I am committed to inspiring the next generation to break barriers, challenge norms, and pursue their aspirations without hesitation.”