Held on February 14, 2025, at the Learning Planet Institute, the event provided an important platform for discussing gender equality in science, celebrating the achievements of women scientists, and fostering a more inclusive research culture.
The event, a collaborative initiative between the MCAA, through the MEDNIGHT project, and the European PATTERN project of the Learning Planet Institute (LPI), aimed to celebrate and promote the contributions of women in science. The PATTERN project is an interdisciplinary and international program focused on advancing Open and Responsible Research and Innovation, with an emphasis on creating training activities for researchers at all career stages. One such training activity addresses important topics like gender equality, non-discrimination, and inclusion. This focus on gender and inclusion served as the backdrop for the event, which was co-organized by LPI and the MCAA France Chapter.
The day featured a series of thought-provoking conferences addressing critical topics such as the challenges women face in STEM, the representation of female researchers, and ongoing efforts toward achieving gender equality within the scientific community. Speakers from both the PATTERN and MEDNIGHT projects shared insights and experiences in Education, Research, Tech-Industry, and Science Policy, engaging the audience in meaningful discussions around these pressing issues. Notably, representatives from the Fondation L’Oreal and UNESCO were invited to speak about their joint initiative, “Women in Science”, further highlighting the global efforts being made to support and empower women in the scientific field.
The event concluded with the opening of The Marie Curie of the Mediterranean exhibition, offering attendees a chance to explore a visual representation of the challenges and achievements of women in science. This exhibition remained on display at the Learning Planet Institute for several days following the event, further extending its impact.
