TWIN2PIPSA Joins the Worldwide Celebrations for all Women and Girls
in Science

11 February, 2024

Today is the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, in which the scientific community celebrates all the inspiring women who contribute(d) and dedicate(d) their lives to science. 

Several women are recognized worldwide for their undeniable contribution for the advancement of the human knowledge and their valuable scientific discoveries that have paved the way for the development of new technologies. A well-known example of such remarkable women is Marie Curie, who discovered radium and described its applicability (X-rays) to study nature and compounds. Although many other women could be cited, their names and stories are not always known. Indeed, for several centuries women were not allowed to study and develop their knowledge, with the scientific community being governed by men. The movement for women's rights and the undefeatable and adventurous spirit of pioneer women have break this governance pattern, allowing women to conquer recognition among their male peers.


Certain people – men, of course – discouraged me, saying [science] was not a good career for women. That pushed me even more to persevere.” -- Francoise Barre, Nobel Prize winner in Physiology and Medicine for the discovery of the human immunodeficiency virus


In 2015, the United Nations established the "International Day of Women and Girls in Science" to recognize the scientific and societal advancements made by these historical figures and to continue to promote full and equal access to and participation in science, technology, and innovation for all women and girls. Initially celebrated among member states, organisations and bodies of the United Nations, this event has rapidly attracted individuals and the private sector to leverage awareness and educational activities to promote quality education and gender equality, which is a goals of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development

The TWIN2PIPSA project comprises several capacitation and scientific activities that were designed to leverage and advance the expertise of all its members, ultimately aiming to support the creation of a relevant knowledge hub on protein science. Hence, the TWIN2PIPSA goals are only attainable because of the hard work of its multidisciplinary team of senior and junior researchers. Therefore, and inspired by the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, the TWIN2PIPSA project wants to acknowledge all of those who have contributed in the past for all the scientific advances in the protein science field, but in particular to all women who work daily in the labs to help unravel the mysteries of proteins and their contribution for human health and disease.


For a research worker, the unforgotten moments of his life are those rare ones which come after years of plodding work, when the veil over nature's secret seems suddenly to lift and when what was dark and chaotic appears in a clear and beautiful light and pattern.” -- Gerty Cori, Nobel Prize winner in Physiology or Medicine for the  discovery of the discovery of the course of the catalytic conversion of glycogen


Meet some of the TWIN2PIPSA Women from ULisboa

RSantos
Romana Santos, PhD
Marine Biology

Despite the positive changes made, women are still underrepresented in leadership positions in scientific institutions. Thus, it remains imperative that we continue to highlight women's achievements in science.

TWIN2PIPSA allows me to exchange knowledge with high level international scientists from different research fields, which is crucial given the multidisciplinary nature of my research.

JRibeiro
Joana Valente Ribeiro, MSc
Structural Biochemistry / Protein misfolding in metabolic diseases

By celebrating this day we highlight the many achievements women have accomplished in STEM, but we can also inspire young girls that wish to pursue science as a career.

Through scientific training in partner research institutions, TWIN2PIPSA helps me to foster collaborations and develop new skills.

CCoelho
Carina Marques Coelho, MEd
Proton therapy in neurodegenerative disorders

Celebrating women's achievements in science promotes equality and strengthens the foundation of scientific progress.

Access to EU-funded initiatives like TWIN2PIPSA opens doors to mentorship, training, and funding opportunities, empowering future scientists to thrive in their fields. 

ACarapeto
Ana Carapeto, PhD
Biological Physics

Celebrating women in science highlights their innate multitasking abilities, promoting diversity and innovation in science while inspiring future generations.

TWIN2PIPSA project offers me valuable opportunities for international collaboration, resource-sharing and enhances professional growth while expanding the frontiers of my scientific knowledge.

MSimoes
Margarida Candeias Simões, MSc
Structural Biochemistry

Highlighting women's achievements in science boosts visibility and representation, inspiring young women to pursue careers in science for a more equitable field.

TWIN2PIPSA offers chances to participate in international events, enabling me to share my research, receive crucial feedback, and foster my growth as a scientist. 

DFreitas
Daniela P. de Freitas, MSc
Structural Biochemistry

Celebrating this day encourages the participation and retention of women in science, challenges biases, and highlights the value of diverse perspectives for scientific progress.

The TWIN2PIPSA project gives me the chance to train with experts in the field, learn and gain access to state-of-the-art approaches, expand my network and establish collaborations. 

BHenriques
Bárbara Henriques, PhD
Structural Biochemistry / Protein misfolding in metabolic diseases

Although more women attend science-related degrees, it is still important to emphasize that they can pursue a successful career in science and this celebration day helps to spread the word.

Within the scope of TWIN2PIPSA, I regularly gather and discuss with researchers from partner institutions, which has already leveraged a new collaborative project. 

PFaisca
Patrícia F. N. Faísca, PhD
Biological Physics

Women scientists, just like their male counterparts, play a vital role in advancing scientific knowledge, conducting research, and making important contributions to various scientific disciplines. Recognizing and celebrating their role in science is essential for promoting inclusivity, inspiring future generations, challenging stereotypes, and fostering a more diverse and innovative scientific community, ultimately helping to create a more equitable and successful future for science.

TWIN2PIPSA has been important for my scientific career by boosting my visibility and reputation, and by facilitating impactful research outcomes. 

IVentura
Inês Ventura, MSc
Marine Biology

It is important to see the progress that we made so far. Every single person should do what they want and what is in their ability without anyone saying otherwise.

Visit international laboratories and visit other countries for conferences, were some of the opportunities that this TWIN2PIPSA has provided me. Every single thing that I was able to do allowed me to discover different ways of thinking, new cultures and techniques. I discussed my work with so many people and saw so many research themes, that not only my work improved but also my mindset grew.

ANunes
Ana Nunes, PhD
Physics

It is important to celebrate the role of women in science to reach a point where it will no longer make sense to do it, and we are not there yet!

TWIN2PIPSA contributes to my scientific career by enabling collaborations in cutting edge topics and making me aware of new scientific questions in Biological Physics.

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