Univ.-Prof. Dr. phil. Heinz Faßmann, President of the Austrian Academy of Sciences Mag. Barbara Weitgruber, Director General for Scientific Research and International relations, Austrian Ministry of Education, Science, and Research Prof. Dr. Arianna Montorsi, Department of Applied Science and Technology , Politecnico di Torino Dr. Emily Jenkins, Head of the Zoonotic Parasite Research Unit, University of Saskatchewan Dr. Aubrey Paris, Policy Advisor for Gender, Climate Change & Innovation Dr. Najat Mokhtar (IAEA) Deputy Director General and Head of the Department of Nuclear Sciences and Applications, International Atomic Energy Agency Amanda Palazzo, Research Scholar, International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis Univ.-Prof. Dr. iur. Christiane Wendehorst, President of the Division of Humanities and Social Sciences, Austrian Academy of Sciences Prof. Dr. Ursula Kelleer, Department of Physics/Institute for Quantum Electronics ETHZ

Global Perspectives on Women in Science: Challenges, Opportunities and Realities

On February 20, 2023, the Embassy of Switzerland in Austria initiated a panel discussion on Women in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) at the Austrian Academy of Sciences (ÖAW). It was arranged in collaboration with the embassies of the United States, Sweden, Canada, and Italy. The discussion centered on the present state of women in STEM in international comparison, the challenges they confront, and the solutions being considered or implemented.

Throughout two panels and following discussions, it became evident that there is an urgent need for action at both the local and international levels. In order to strengthen the position of women at all academic ranks, it is not enough or even advisable for them to adopt traditional male behavior and action strategies. Rather, women's specific career models must be handled through sensitized management. Financial incentive schemes may additionally help setting the course. The topicality and relevance of this were proved not only by the high level of interest and participation, but also by the organizational partners' willingness to keep the topic in focus in the future.

As a follow-event, a second edition of the format is scheduled in March 2024. Excitingly, the number of participating embassies has grown.

Furthermore, the Austrian Academy of Sciences is once again involved as a partner, allowing us to nurture and expand our ties with the country's main research driver.