“Científicas” is an innovative initiative led by the Faculty of Chemistry and Biology at the University of Santiago, Chile. Organized by the Outreach and Public Engagement Unit, the program seeks to recognize the achievements of women in science, encourage new STEM vocations, and build a more inclusive scientific community.
“I think it was a very stimulating and promising activity,” said Dean Dr. Bernardo Morales. “The Faculty has successfully raised awareness through initiatives that value and open new spaces for participation. We need more people in science, without exclusions, and this is our contribution to that goal.”
Insights from Leading Female Scientists
The event featured diverse activities designed to convey unique perspectives on the role of women in STEM. The first session included a presentation by Dr. Jenny Blamey, a prominent female researcher at the Faculty of Chemistry and Biology. She discussed her career path and her specialized research on extremophiles, which has led to collaborations with the United States Aerospace Office and the European Space Agency.
“Have confidence in yourselves and your own abilities; walk through life with courage and determination,” Dr. Blamey told the audience in the Dr. Claudio Vásquez Auditorium during her talk, “My Journey from the Atacama Desert to Space.”
The event also featured Teresa Paneque, a renowned female astronomer (PhD) and researcher at the University of Michigan. Known for her scientific outreach on social media and her book series “The Universe According to Carlota,” Paneque emphasized the need for representation. “It is vital to foster a space that is more inclusive for everyone,” she noted.
“For over 10 years, I have enjoyed volunteering and connecting with students. Beyond my research, I use Instagram, TikTok, and literature to bridge the gap between science and society, while working as a UNICEF ambassador to advocate for the rights of children,” Paneque shared during her session, “Between Networks: Connecting Science and Society.”
Empowering the Next Generation of Female Scientists
The program highlighted the voices of youth, featuring students from the Liceo Politécnico de Ciencia y Tecnología and the Liceo Polivalente Presidente Juan Manuel Balmaceda. These young leaders presented on topics such as the “Visibility of Women Scientists” and “Women Scientists and the Future.”
“We value this space as an opportunity to raise the profile of women in our field,” said student Uxue Ubal. “It was a wonderful experience that shows us there is still a long way to go, but the opportunities are growing.”
The Future of Science Education
The day transitioned into an expert panel titled “The Role of Science Education and Its Importance in the Future.” This panel of distinguished women in science included Dr. Leonora Mendoza Espínola, Vice Rector for Academic Affairs, Dr. María Angélica Rubio, Researcher at the Faculty of Chemistry and Biology, and Norma Grez, Former Dean of the Faculty of Science.
The panelists discussed the challenges faced during their scientific training and highlighted the transformative influence teachers have in awakening a passion for science in young students.
Celebrating Scientific Heritage
The activity concluded with the photo exhibition “Renowned Women Scientists” at the Plaza de la Mujer y la Niña en la Ciencia. The closing ceremony was attended by University of Santiago de Chile authorities, including Dean Dr. Bernardo Morales Muñoz, Vice Dean Dr. Iriux Almodóvar, and Directors Dr. Leonel Rojo and Dr. Fernando Ortiz.