2021 International Day of Women and Girls in Science

In 2016, the UN Member States formally adopted February 11^th as the International Day to recognize the critical role women and girls play in science and technology. Since then, ICFO has enthusiastically celebrated this event as an opportunity to recognize the excellent work of women in the scientific community, and to motivate the next generation of female scientists to consider careers in STEM.

The International Day of Women and Girls in Science is the day that ICFOnians inaugurate an entire month of activities with a focus on women in science, support for gender diversity, celebration of achievements, recognition of challenges that deter women from scientific careers, and ways to facilitate the equitable participation of women in scientific endeavors. Now in its fourth year, the event has facilitate an open and productive conversation about our strengths and shortcomings, make a more inclusive environment and encourage a more girls in the next generation to pursue careers in STEM.

ICFO’s commitment to supporting and increasing diversity in all its forms is a year-round activity. Examples of initiatives include the SPIE Chair @ ICFO for Diversity in Photonic Sciences which makes possible programs such as the Maria Yzuel Fellowships Awards and the SPIE@ICFO Chair Research Fellowships, promoting diversity and supporting new talent in photonics. Focusing on both gender diversity and international perspectives, ICFO has participated in the Women for Africa Foundation’s program Science by Women (Ellas Investigan), since 2016, hosting senior scientists from Africa with the goal of enabling African women researchers and scientists to tackle the great challenges faced in their home countries. Taking proactive steps for a diverse and inclusive future for science, ICFO’s active Outreach programs encourage scientific vocations, paying special attention to include the gender dimension in the design and implementation of Outreach activities as well as in targeting participation.

ICFO as an institute is invested in ensuring that science plays a crucial role for the well-being of society. We know that a wide range of perspectives and talents are required to maximize its potential. For this reason all ICFOnians, regardless of their gender, research focus or administrative responsibilities come together this month to focus on the role of women in scientific discoveries as well as the ways that we can support women to reach their full potential in scientific careers.