Prof. Dr. Mariana Calin, project coordinator at the Leibniz Institute for Solid State and Materials Research Dresden (IFW), opened the discussion with an insight into her experiences as a young scientist from Bucharest, Romania. She described how the start of her career and her first international experiences shaped her professional development. Calin is actively involved in EU projects in science. She has been part of several major projects, including WomenInNano (2005-2008), Diversity (2009-2011), BIOTINET-ITN (2011-2014) and BIOREMIA-ITN (2020-2024). 

Prof. Dr. Andréa de Camargo, Head of the Glass Department at the Federal Institute for Materials Research and Testing (BAM) and originally from Brazil, spoke about the importance of courage and risk-taking for women in science. She emphasized the importance of encouraging the next generation to take risks and seize professional opportunities. Despite some progress in Brazil - such as the increasing number of women in leadership positions - there is still a long way to go to achieve true equality. More female role models are needed to show young women that a successful career in science is possible. 

The event also highlighted the support that women need to combine their career and family. Measures such as mentoring and networking between junior and senior female scientists were discussed. Initiatives are intended to encourage women and make it easier for them to enter new professional environments. 

Finally, reference was made to upcoming events as part of the Women@DGM initiative, at which international aspects and the integration of gender issues into European projects will be explored in greater depth. The event ended with a lively discussion and an appeal to the participants to play an active role in shaping future initiatives. 

The next opportunity to exchange ideas will be at the International Materials Science and Engineering Congress (MSE) in Darmstadt, Germany, in September 2024. Interested women are invited to contact  for future pitch presentations in order to contribute their perspectives and experiences to the discussion. Women@DGM for future pitch presentations in order to contribute their perspectives and experiences to the discussion. 

For further information or to get in touch, please contact Women@DGM or Prof. Dr. Martina Zimmermann.