STFC pledges to get more women into science and technology careers

8 May 2014 11:32 AM

We have answered the government’s call to action yesterday (7th May 2014) by pledging our support for its Your Life campaign. 

Launched by the Chancellor, George Osborne, at the Science Museum in London, the campaign aims to encourage more women to take up careers in science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM).

Boosting such skills is essential if the UK is to remain at the forefront of science and technology, and to thrive in a global economy. Currently only a fifth of students taking A-level physics are girls, and less than one in ten UK engineering professionals are women.

George Osborne said, “This campaign, which brings together some of Britain's best businesses, institutions and government, will help inspire young people into jobs in these exciting sectors that are essential to our economic prosperity.”

Delivering STFC’s pledge at the event are Professor Susan Smith, Dr Ceri Brenner and Dr Sophy Palmer, three women who have excelled in their chosen careers.

Our science and technology – including “blue sky” research such as astronomy or research with direct human benefits such as medical and environmental applications - offer many girls an appealing route into the physical sciences and engineering.

Our pledge includes that, through our National Laboratories and nationwide touring programme:

In national partnerships:

And as an employer and research funder:

For more information about the government’s Your Life campaign visit:www.yourlife.org.uk/