Celebrating Women and Girls in Science

Denise Heckmann, Science Learning Area Leader

To celebrate International Day for Women and Girls in Science, some of Footscray High School’s curious Year 9 and Year 10 students had the amazing opportunity to ask questions about STEM careers for females.

Those great questions were answered by none other than Victoria’s most accomplished female scientists: Victoria’s Lead Scientist Dr Amanda Caples, the Commissioner for Environmental Sustainability Dr Gillian Sparkes, and Victoria’s Chief Environmental Scientist Dr Andrea Hinwood.

Dr Amanda Caples, Dr Gillian Sparkes & Dr Andrea Hinwood

During this event, which was organised by the Royal Society of Victoria, students also gained insights into the careers and research interests of the three outstanding researchers Dr Muneera Bano (ethics of artificial intelligence, Deakin University), Dr Amy Coetsee (animal conservation, Zoos Victoria) and A/Prof Misty Jenkins (cancer immunotherapy, WEHI).

Dr Muneera Bano, Dr Amy Coetsee & A/Prof Misty Jenkins

To top off this great event, our curious minds were treated to their own showbag generously provided by WEHI and GTAC.

I would like to thank Amy, Sophia, Leena, Tahlia, Rosie (all Year 9) and Emily, Ella, Scarlette and Ava (all Year 10) for their participation and great questions!

If you are curious about STEM and would like to know more about how you can get involved in events and activities specifically designed for Women & Girls in STEM, check out this amazing map created by the Office of the Lead Scientist Victoria: