Celebrating women in science and technology at Eagle Genomics

Every 11^th February we celebrate the United Nations’ International Day of Women and Girls in Science (IDWGIS). This year’s particular focus is the role of science in driving equity and sustainability, emphasizing the role of women, girls and science in relation to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This includes SDG 2 (zero hunger), SDG 6 (clean water and sanitation), SDG 7 (affordable and clean energy), SDG 9 (industry, innovation, and infrastructure), SDG 11 (sustainable cities and communities) and SDG17 (means of implementation). 

Eagle Genomics is a platform business focused on accelerating the Bioeconomy through the digital reinvention of life sciences R&D. Together, we are bridging the current ‘translation gap’, addressing critical bottlenecks in industrial applications of microbiome science – from soil, to plant, to farm, to fork, to human, to animals, and environmental health. Today and every day, we are grateful to all women in science and technology, both in our teams and those worldwide, who continually and ceaselessly contribute to science and innovation – driving forward our collective future towards a more equitable and sustainable world.  

To celebrate the IDWGIS 2023, we asked different members of the Eagle Genomics team to share some thoughts on this special day. This includes their journeys as women in science and technology, as well as some advice for future generations. Here are their responses. 

“My career in science has often felt like a never-ending maze of dead ends and diversions. Only through the winding road of life have I discovered my true strength. This has led me to become the scientific leader today that I always aspired to be, in a completely different role I never knew existed before I joined Eagle Genomics. To all the aspiring and young scientists out there: Trust your instincts and follow your dreams. Your best work is ahead of you in a role that probably does not even exist today.”
Dr. Birgit Meldal, Senior Scientific Data Manager 

"Women and girls are unique in the sense of being able to lead in science, in life, and the entire world. I mean that, even if they have no opportunity, they are able to tailor the best for themselves and still grow forward. If we can dig deep into ourselves, learn about our capabilities, and appreciate ourselves, we will be in the right place – one we always dreamed of. Happy International Day of Women and Girls in Science to all female scientists in all scientific fields.”
Dr. Nooshin Omranian, Systems Biology Scientist 

“Previous generations of women in science were trailblazers, charting new territory and breaking barriers. I feel that it is now my duty as a scientist to continue with the same curiosity and determination to light the way for future generations of female-identifying scientists to reach new heights and continue changing the world for the better.” 
Dr. Myrto Kremyda-Vlachou, Bioinformatician 

"Since my school days, I became more curious about science, and have met as well as read the story of some remarkable scientific women who have inspired me over the years. Today, I am pursuing an exciting career in science, and this day is an opportunity for me to encourage young girls to follow their passion and aspirations that can eventually contribute to the shaping of a better world.” 
Marion Vandeputte, Application Scientist 

“Science is a fascinating subject that has the power to unlock some of the biggest mysteries of the universe. Women have made, and continue to make, a significant contribution to this field. My transition from experimental biologist to biodata innovation as well as strategy & business development roles at Eagle Genomics brought an opportunity to use my scientific background and knowledge to drive innovation and make a real difference in the world. Today on the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, I want to remind you of your worth and potential. Believe in yourself and your abilities, and never stop pushing the boundaries of what's possible!” 
Dr. Neerupma Bhardwaj, Senior Scientist 

“Despite the increase in women who graduate higher education, they are still a minority in STEM fields (less than 30% globally). Studies on the gender gap reflect that women have less voice, publish less, are paid less for their research and progress less in their careers. However, science requires an interdisciplinary approach and a diversity of viewpoints leading to greater impact and often a representation of the needs of society. Encouraging and cultivating environments that drive both women and cognitive diversity enhances innovation, drives more constructive working environments and increases business profitability. Celebrating all these advances as part of the International Day of Women and Girls is a very special moment to recognise many who are planning their journey, succeeding in STEM and those who are enabling others to thrive.”  
Dr. Yvonne Pinto, Director of Bioeconomy – AgBio  

“If something keeps you happy don't let go of it, as it might be something small today but could be something big tomorrow. My passion towards science made me go beyond my comfort zone to be who I am today, and I believe that in the future there will be a big 'Eureka!' moment in my life too. As a woman, whether it’s creating a home to building a career, we juggle multiple roles, but we also do have immense strength to conquer our dreams. I wish all women and girls in the science field with strength and determination to build the career they dream of.” 
Roshan Shafiha, Junior Bioinformatician 

“Being a scientist defines who you are! I am curious, disciplined, and have a passion for ‘connecting the dots’! I started my science journey with Physics, Chemistry, Biology and Maths at school and ended up with a PhD in Neuroscience, trying to understand what I feared the most - the human brain! I went on to have a career in business and technology and now back in full circle to science, with differentiated experiences that can contribute to moving the needle. Being a scientist is not about what you know but about how you think. Women bring multiple levels of diversity into the scientific process and outcomes. Today we are celebrating that - and those who nurture their confidence in doing so!” 
Dr. Victoria Kimonides, Commercial Consultant 

“To put a personal anecdote to statistics about gender ratios in STEM, there are more times than I can count that I’ve been in a room (classroom, conference room, etc.) where, as a female-identifying scientist, I am counted among the gender minority. If I had been born a century or two earlier, I may not have been in the room at all! Today, and all days, I celebrate how far we have come for women in STEM and push for a future where true gender equity in STEM, and especially in positions of power, is achieved.” 
Dr. Shaina Lu, Bioinformatician Scientist 

“I am particularly inspired by the theme of this year’s International Day of Women and Girls in Science. Achieving sustainable and equitable development is not a small goal. I am proud to collaborate with brilliant colleagues who bring their best self to work and cooperate in driving science-based innovation. As a woman in science, I feel inspired by the massive efforts from past generations to get us where we are today, and I feel empowered to continue the hard work towards a better future for generations to come.”  
Marina Gonzalo, Scientific Marketing Manager 

If you would like to contribute to Eagle Genomics’ purpose to accelerate the Bioeconomy through the digital reinvention of life sciences R&D, and work alongside these and many other inspiring individuals, visit our careers page or contact us.