Girls step up for a future in science

THE University of Tasmania is encouraging women and girls to pursue careers in the sciences to solve the problems of the future. To celebrate International Day of Women and Girls in Science, the UTAS Sandy Bay campus yesterday held science activities for more than 200 students between the ages of eight and 15. Award-winning astrophysicist and Women in STEM ambassador Professor Lisa Harvey-Smith was in Hobart for the event, spending part of the day speaking with students about her career. Dr Harvey-Smith said how important it was that girls were encouraged to pursue STEM pathways. “Women are 51 per cent of the population and are very talented, creative and smart people,” Dr Harvey- Smith said. “Because women are so underrepresented in STEM, we’re not bringing all of humanity to the problems we face.”

Professor Simon Ellingsen, who teaches physics at the university, said there weren’t as many girls starting science at university level due to the perception of gender and career paths, and that he wanted to see that change.

“We know that having diversity in any area is good in terms of solving problems because you get different perspectives,” Dr Ellingsen said.

Collegiate student Charlie Upston, 12, said she wanted to be either a zoologist or a scientist.

“I like that you can do whatever you want … you can research anything,” she said.

Dr Harvey-Smith said the government-initiated STEM program was also about breaking down barriers women have in the workplace.