Being a Woman in Science: the testimony of three female collaborators from the FCCN unit.

To celebrate International Day of Women and Girls in Science, which falls on February 11th, we launched a challenge to three of our science professionals at FCCN, a unit of the Foundation for Science and Technology.

Cátia Laranjeira, manager of PTCRIS, Joana Novais, manager of b-on, and Talissa Anger, science manager in the program. PTCRIS, They shared their experiences of what it's like to do science as a woman, highlighting the feeling of "pride in breaking barriers.".

If for Joana Novais, "being a woman in science is a source of pride," for Cátia Laranjeira, it's "being an eternal explorer, challenging the limits of what we know with inexhaustible curiosity." "It's building bridges between the present and the future, contributing to the advancement of knowledge and shaping tomorrow!" adds Cátia.

Talissa Anger further reinforces these messages from her colleagues, considering that "being a woman in science is a source of pride, as it breaks down barriers, redefines standards, and contributes to a more inclusive world."

When asked whether they would recommend this career to a young woman choosing her professional path, none of the three hesitated.

"Yes, I would enthusiastically recommend it. Despite the challenges and obstacles women still face in science, their contribution is invaluable. The diversity of perspectives and approaches afforded by women's participation in science is essential to solving the complex issues of the contemporary world." explains Cátia Laranjeira.

The manager of PTCRIS It also reminds us that we have many examples of women in science who, through their resilience and determination, inspire future generations to overcome barriers, demonstrating that science is a field where every voice is valuable.

To Joana Novais,

"This is a career where there's no monotony: each day is different and more stimulating than the last. We're like jugglers and tightrope walkers, learning new tricks every day, thus achieving ever greater personal satisfaction and recognition."

When asked about the same, Talissa Anger says that

“During scientific careers, highly valuable professional and interpersonal skills and competencies are developed that can be applied both in academia and in industry, in sectors such as finance, technology, consulting, and others, in which data-driven decision-making plays a crucial role.”

Talissa concludes with the message:

“Science is made with diversity and opportunities, therefore I will encourage women to enter and remain in science and academia, and to occupy decision-making positions.”

To learn more about the work these three professionals have been developing in the Science area at the FCCN unit, please visit: https://www.fccn.pt/ciencia-aberta/