This year, on International Women and Girls in Science Day, we focus on the next generation - teenage girls who are wondering what career is right for them and what subjects fascinate them. The fields of science and research are extremely exciting, but outdated role stereotypes still prevent some girls from discovering their interest in technology. This is why we want to encourage them.

There is no evidence that girls are less talented in technical fields. Rather, their lower interest seems to be due to conditioning and a lack of role models. In addition, some girls feel that they do not meet the requirements of STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) professions. This last point in particular can be corrected at school. This is why WSL participates, for example, in a Think Tank launched by the Paul Scherrer Institute to acquaint Swiss teenage girls with technical and scientific professions. WSL also supports its own young female employees, the Early Career Scientists, with courses, mentoring and career coaching. Because even though our institute as a whole is on its way to achieving parity, the proportion of women could still easily double in management positions, as in almost all MINT professions at WSL.

There are great opportunities for girls. Innovation and new approaches are the key to the future. Women must be able to get involved and participate in the creation. Furthermore, due to the shortage of skilled workers, especially in the IT sector, there are many vacancies in STEM professions. Girls should therefore choose their profession independently of stereotypes, but rather according to their affinities.

So please share our videos and get young girls excited about the issues and opportunities in the natural sciences, technology and engineering.

For further information:

• Study offers at Swiss higher education institutions: studyprogrammes.ch
• Commission for the Promotion of Young Talents at Swiss Academy of Sciences SCNAT
• International Day of Women and Girls in Science