Girls and Science: Meetings Between High School Students and Women Scientists

Published the 26/05/2026

As part of promoting science among girls, six tenth-grade classes met with women scientists through the association Mujeres de Ciencias. Both male and female students had the opportunity to discuss topics such as scientific studies, careers in science, and the underrepresentation of girls in these fields.
At the same time, the LFM teachers organized a forum theatre session focused on stereotypes surrounding girls’ place in science and access to scientific studies and careers. This activity helped students develop responses and alternatives to common discouraging situations, which often stem more from social perceptions than from motivation or ability. Male and female students now know how to recognize gender bias and respond positively, both for themselves and for others.
We hope this partnership with the scientists will be the beginning of a long-lasting exchange.

We would like to thank the Mujeres de Ciencias Association and its members:

Sara García Linares, PhD in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, specializing in protein structure and function
Marina García Macía, PhD in Biology, specialized in Biomedicine, co-founder and director of the Mujeres de Ciencias Association
Andrea González-Montoro, PhD in Physics, specializing in Medical Physics
María Jaenada Malagón, PhD in Mathematical Engineering, Statistics, and Operations Research
Pilar Jurado Angulo, PhD student in Biodiversity, Genetics, and Evolution
Amparo Ruiz Carretero, PhD in Chemistry, specializing in Organic Chemistry
María José Sánchez Berrena, PhD in Crystallography, Biochemistry, and Molecular Biology
Conchi Serrano, Scientific Researcher, PhD in Biology, specializing in molecular biology with a focus on reversing spinal cord injuries

Students feedbacks:

“I think it’s a very good initiative to help girls realize that they are capable and that they need to have confidence in themselves.”

“I think it’s good because girls are often excluded from scientific subjects. This is because they do not feel competent enough. So it’s important to remind them that this is not true.”

“It was interesting to discover this woman’s career path.”

“The goal was to show the importance of women in scientific professions: the world needs everyone.”

“The round table discussion was very interesting: it made me think about all the lesser-known professions and the people who contribute to the scientific development of our society.”

“It made me reflect and realize that many women limit themselves because of stereotypes created by society.”

“The goal was to realize that today, many more men pursue science, even though women are equally capable.”

“The role of women in science is very limited because of social pressure. But we all need to work together to break these stereotypes.”