Although the numbers and proportions of women entrants to higher education has risen in recent years, this is not being reflected in entrants to science, engineering and technology courses. This day-long event has been specifically designed for women in schools, higher education, industry and politics. It will provide a rare opportunity to explore a range of issues such as why science would benefit from more women and the role of media and education in changing perceptions.
A number of distinguished speakers from across the UK will be addressing delegates, including Dr Sabine Kleinert, Senior Editor The Lancet; Dr Gill Samuels, Senior Director, Pfizer Global Research & Development and Heather Reid, Physicist and BBC Scotland Meteorologist.
Dr Helen Galley, Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Aberdeen and Symposium Organiser said: "Women have been involved in scientific discoveries, policy-making and education for hundreds of years. But the world of science is still dominated by men. In the UK alone, only 4% of professors of science, engineering or technology are women and they make up less than 10% of the scientists elected to fellowship of the Royal Society, Royal Academy of Engineering and the Institute of Biology. This symposium is sure to be of interest to everyone interested in helping to create a stronger and more diverse scientific community in the years to come."