Science 50:50 Women in Science Symposium
Published on the 12 Mar 2015
The Australian National Maritime Museum in conjunction with UNSW Science hosted a Women in Science Symposium to encourage high school and university students to see the possibilities for scientific careers. Professors Bruce Henry and Moninya Roughan from the School attended the symposium, which was held last Friday 6 March.
The Symposium also played host to the Sydney launch of UNSW's Science 50:50 program with panellists from industry meeting together to discuss internships, mentoring pathways and networks for women in science. Scientia Professor Veena Sahajwalla, Associate Dean (Strategic Industry Relations) at UNSW Science, is the Program Leader for the 50:50 initiative.
The event featured a keynote address from Professor Ian Jacobs, UNSW Vice Chancellor, and a talk by Dean of UNSW Science, Prof. Merlin Crossley, who officially launched the 50:50 program.
The event also hosted Careers Talks from UNSW Industry partners including the ARC, CSIRO, IBM, Cochlear, Woolworths, Arrium, Brickworks, Australian Museum Research Institute, and Global Product Stewardship Council. Prof. Veena Sahajwalla facilitated a Q&A and panel discussion.
Science 50:50 aims to inspire Australian girls and young women to pursue degrees and careers in science and technology so they can succeed in an innovation-driven future. Science 50:50 makes the simple point – since half the population is female, why not half the scientists and technologists?
By informing and engaging young women with the power of science and technology to solve complex problems and transform lives - and by introducing them to Australian scientists and innovators who are doing just that - Science 50:50 can help recalibrate the gender balance.
(Image: Professor Emma Johnston from BEES [left] appeared on one of the discussion panels)