Recognizing that women are currently under-represented in leadership positions in science and technology, ICFO seeks to take proactive measures to offer additional skills training and resources that further empower women as they strive to reach their professional goals.

A variety of initiatives aim to help increase the visibility of female researchers at the institute, provide access to inspiring role models, create a discussion forum on specific topics of interest, and provide an informal space for networking.

Examples of initiatives in this field are the “Women in Science Lunches”, a series of seminars and lunches that combine speakers from the ICFO community and invited speakers from around the world. Likewise in order to raise awareness on diversity and gender issues, ICFO annually celebrates “Women in Science Month” from February 11th (International Day of Women and Girls in Science) to March 8th (International Women’s Day). Throughout this month, ICFOnians draw attention to women’s contributions to the scientific enterprise, celebrating a series of talks, activities and debates that target all ICFOnians – because we ALL benefit by supporting women in science.