2025 marks two significant milestones in the global movement for gender equality and women’s empowerment: the 10th anniversary of the International Day of Women and Girls in Science and the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action.
To celebrate the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, we’re sharing brief insights from three women in our community, offering a glimpse into what inspired their careers in STEM and what they love most about their work.
Nicole Belo do Couto, PhD, Science Manager
When did you first decide that you wanted to become a scientist (pursue a STEM career)?
I’ve been fascinated by nature for as long as I can remember. But it was when I was 12, watching Il était une fois… (Once Upon a Time…), that I first decided I wanted to become a “discoverer!”
Did you have a role model?
Several, actually! My first role model was my father, who inspired me to travel the world and fostered my love for lifelong learning. Later, in Portugal, a supervisor challenged me to become a better researcher. More recently, a senior female science manager showed me that there’s more to science than working at the bench—she opened my eyes to the broader impact science can have.
What do you like the most about your job?
My team! We support each other through every challenge. Together, we get to be creative, organize ideas, solve problems, and collaborate with amazing people. Plus, I love the flexibility of our schedule—it allows for both productivity and balance.
Advice to young curious minds?
Stay curious! Find what makes you happy and go for it. Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone—that’s where the real discoveries happen!
Sabrina Giofrè, PhD, Postdoctoral researcher
When did you first decide that you wanted to become a scientist (pursue a STEM Career)?
I was always fascinated about science and during middle school I realised I really enjoyed scientific subjects the most. During the last years of high school I realized how cool would be to create things, substances that could interact with our cells and could help humanity.
Do you have a role model?
My mathematics teacher in high school was very inspiring! I was fascinated by her passion and her ability to find easier way to explain complex things. She helped me find the studies that best fitted my profile – Pharmaceutical Chemistry. Later, during my Masters, a PhD student served as my mentor and inspired me to continue to do what I love: Research!
What you like the most about your job?
To be able to create unique & original substances, to “see” beyond the visible!
Advice to young curious minds?
Define your own way! Don’t let others decide for you.
Dorothee Dormann, PhD , Group leader & University Professor
When did you first decide that you wanted to become a scientist (pursue a STEM career)?
In my final year of high school, when I became fascinated by genetics and molecular biology during my biology class.
Do you have a role model?
Not specifically—I try to learn from many different people. However, I found Sheryl Sandberg’s Lean In particularly inspiring.
What do you like the most about your job?
The freedom to explore topics that interest me most, and the opportunity to collaborate with smart, motivated people.
Advice to young curious minds?
Pursue what excites you and aligns with your strengths.