Stories, resources and communities to explore for International Day of Women and Girls in Science 2025
We’re celebrating International Day of Women and Girls in Science by thinking about ways we can learn, connect or contribute to advancing gender equity.
International Day of Women and Girls in Science (11 February) is a time to celebrate the achievements of women, reflect on the challenges they face and advocate for gender equality in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) fields. This year, we’ve curated a selection of books, films and online communities that highlight the incredible contributions of women across science, society and culture while addressing the systemic barriers they continue to confront.
From uncovering hidden gender biases in healthcare and neuroscience to spotlighting the resilience and innovation of women in STEM, these resources serve as both inspiration and a call to action. Whether you’re looking to learn, connect or contribute to advancing gender equity, this list offers tools to amplify women’s voices and support a more inclusive world.
Dive into our recommendations below!
Mothers in Science
Mothers in Science is a grassroots, global, nonprofit organization founded in 2019 by scientific editor and consultant Isabel Torres and medical physics and radiation therapy professional Sonal Bhadane. The organization advocates for mothers in STEMM by starting important conversations, creating valuable resources, conducting research and building an online community where people can connect. Membership has a yearly cost of €45.00 for professionals and €25.00 for students and gives you access to mentoring, career fair events and member spotlights to boost your visibility.
BioinformHER
BioinformHER is a LinkedIn community that focuses on promoting diversity and inclusion within the field of bioinformatics. It is designed to connect and empower women and underrepresented groups working in or aspiring to join bioinformatics and related fields. The community provides a platform for networking, sharing career opportunities, mentoring and discussing the latest research and trends in bioinformatics.
Invisible Women
Invisible Women takes the reader on a journey to expose the hidden gender bias woven into the fabric of society. From a one-size-fits-all approach in medical device design to underrepresentation in clinical trials, Caroline Criado Perez draws on a wealth of data to expose how modern Mother Earth is a world designed by men, for men.
Criado Perez challenges us to question why ‘gender-neutral’ drug doses are the norm despite the increased overdose risk for women and explore why medical practice assumes that male bodies represent humanity. Uncover the hidden cost of neglecting women’s health data in this eye-opening read that seeks a more data-driven, equitable society.
The Gendered Brain
The Gendered Brain by Gina Rippon challenges the myth of male and female brain differences, arguing that differences are shaped more by societal expectations than biology. Using neuroscience, she debunks stereotypes, highlighting the brain’s plasticity and how culture influences abilities and behaviors. It’s a compelling call to rethink gendered assumptions scientifically and socially, addressing the influential role that culture has in molding gender norms.
Temple Grandin
Temple Grandin tells the inspiring true story of Temple Grandin, an autistic woman who becomes an advocate for autism awareness and animal welfare. Set in the 1960s and 70s, it follows Temple’s journey from a misunderstood child to a brilliant scientist revolutionizing livestock handling. Despite social challenges, her determination, visual thinking and innovative ideas led to incredible achievements in humane livestock handling. With the support of her mother, teachers and mentors, Temple defies expectations and discrimination in a male-dominated industry, showing the world the value of neurodiversity. The film is a celebration of resilience, creativity and individuality.
Picture a Scientist
Picture a Scientist is a powerful documentary that explores gender inequality in science through the stories of three female scientists – chemist Raychelle Burks, geologist Jane Willenbring and biologist Nancy Hopkins. It explores their experiences with discrimination, harassment and systemic barriers, highlighting the challenges women face in STEM fields. The film also showcases their resilience, advocacy and efforts to create a more inclusive and equitable scientific community. Combining personal narratives with broader data on bias, it’s a call to action for transforming the culture of science and inspiring change.
Below the Belt
Below the Belt is a documentary that follows four women as they navigate the US healthcare system in their pursuit of diagnoses, treatments and answers for endometriosis. Directed by Shannon Cohn, who waited 13 years for her own diagnosis, the film highlights the societal taboos, gender bias, misinformation and financial barriers related to endometriosis.
Do you know of any great resources or initiatives that celebrate and empower women? Email us at [email protected] to share your suggestions!
