Scientist visits former Sussex schools to inspire girls
One of our top scientists returned to her roots in an effort to encourage more girls to flourish in STEM subjects.
Senior process scientist Aoife Quinlivan gave a talk to pupils to mark International Day of Women and Girls in Science
Aoife spoke with Year 10 pupils at her former secondary school, St Wilfrid's in Crawley, and former primary school, St Robert Southwell in Horsham.
Joined by colleague and fellow process scientist Felicity Andrews, the pair shared their belief in the importance of women in science to advocate for and be role models to girls who want to pursue careers in science, technology, maths and engineering (STEM).
Aoife, 29, from Crawley, explained that the encouragement of her ‘wonderful’ A Level science teacher Kate Smith kickstarted her career in science.
She said:
“She made our classes fun and relatable and supported and encouraged my aspiration to study chemistry at university.
"I am lucky to have had many female role models throughout my career so far, and I hope by going back to my schools that I can inspire other girls.
"STEM subjects really can lead you anywhere; they develop specific subject-based skills as well as critical thinking, problem solving, curiosity and creativity, which are applicable to so many roles.”
After graduating with a Masters from the University of Birmingham, Aoife then went on to do a PhD in Environmental Engineering at the University of Nottingham before putting her knowledge to practical use as a scientist at Southern Water.
There’s long been a gender gap in the number of girls taking STEM subjects compared with boys. According to Women in Tech, the gap between boys and girls noticeably widens after GCSE level, with 80% of boys pursuing STEM subjects, compared to 35% of girls.
Aoife added:
“What were once heavily male-dominated areas are becoming more diverse, but we still need more women and girls in STEM. Women bring unique perspectives and experiences to discussions which drive solutions, and we need new voices and ideas to keep moving forward."
Aoife and Felicity were among four female Southern Water scientists to have visited Sussex schools this week, to talk about their careers and encourage more girls to study STEM subjects.
Process scientists Jemma Pierce and Acelya Cakariz-Hayes visited Rustington Community Primary School.