Member Article

Role model scheme hopes to boost women's career options

Female scientists in the North East are encouraging a new generation to follow them into careers in science and technology thanks to a role model and mentoring scheme established through Newcastle Science City. Research by Professor Pooran Wynarczyk of Newcastle University’s Small Enterprise Research Unit has shown that women in traditionally male-dominated careers, such as science and technology, still face major barriers to success and are under-represented in the North East.

The result is the establishment of the North East of England Role Model Platform for Innovative Women thanks to a grant of £50,000 from the Economic & Social Research Council (ESRC). The platform is focusing on promoting scientific activities and discoveries amongst women and girls to aid their entry into scientific careers or progress further in their current roles.

Pooran Wynarczyk said: “As the project progresses we will be creating a web-based directory of local female role models and then using that to develop their role as mentors and coaches through workshops which will address some of the main barriers women currently experience. “There is a long way to go to achieve full and equal participation of women in all scientific disciplines and leading the way like this in the North East will place us apart as a leading region in Europe for diversity and excellence.”

Sarah Stewart, director of Newcastle Science City, said: “We fully support Professor Wynarczyk’s work as it will be fundamental to the success of Newcastle Science City in maximising participation in science. Without positive role models of people working in science and its spin-off opportunities who are willing to inspire others, we will not be able to deliver radical change in the way science is taught, learnt and practised in our region in the future.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ruth Mitchell .