When women thrive in science, we all benefit

As we mark the 10th anniversary of the United Nations International Day of Women and Girls in Science, the fight for gender equity has never been more important. 

Women and girls in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) continue to face systemic barriers — not just in their careers, but also in their fundamental rights, including access to healthcare and education. 

Closing the gender gap is about more than representation, it’s about fostering inclusive environments through policies and actions that promote inclusion, diversity, and gender equity.

It’s about creating environments where women are safe and can thrive.

At Burnet, we are working to remove these barriers, across all areas of our work and in every country where we operate.  

Professor Caroline Homer, Deputy Director of gender equity, diversity and inclusion emphasised the broader benefits of gender equity in science.

“It is not just a nice thing to have – there is clear evidence that gender equity is good for everyone and good for organisations,” she said. 

“We have an engaged gender equity, diversity and inclusion committee and many initiatives including new parental leave policies, travel awards, flexible work and a commitment to gender equity across all levels within the institute.”