Hundreds of secondary school students from across Victoria tuned in to The Women's annual Meet a Scientist event in February 2024, a virtual series designed to shine a light on career pathways for young women in science and to mark the United Nations' International Day of Women and Girls in Science.
The event is part of a broader push to address a well-documented imbalance. A 2023 government report revealed that women represent just 15 per cent of the STEM-qualified workforce in Australia, and research from Curtin University found that only one female scientist is referenced in Australian high school science curricula, compared to 150 male scientists.
The Women's CEO Professor Sue Matthews opened the event by encouraging students to see science as a field built for curious, creative, collaborative minds, and emphasised that diverse voices in medical research lead to better outcomes for everyone. She pointed to the well-established fact that women metabolise medication differently to men, yet many new medications are still tested exclusively on male subjects, as one example of why gender equity in research matters.
Four researchers from The Women's shared their personal journeys into science. PhD student Michaela Sacco, whose work focuses on the uterine lining and embryo implantation, spoke openly about finding her path through trial and error. Dr Genia Rozen, who investigates fertility preservation options for cancer patients, reflected on the satisfaction that comes from making even a small but meaningful contribution to patient care. Brooke Backman, who oversees endometriosis research at The Women's, shared how her journey from a small country town led her to international conferences and a stint at the World Health Organization. Neonatologist Dr Stacey Peart, who researches breathing difficulties in preterm babies, closed the event with a simple but powerful message: back yourself, and never settle for less than your passion.
Dr Genia Rozen
Dr Genia Rozen integrates clinical excellence with her passion for research to ensure that patients are given the best treatment for their fertility and gynaecological problems. Her approach revolves around holistic, personalised and genuine care, creating a nurturing environment to support her patients journey towards building their family.
