The International Day of Women and Girls in Science on 11 February recognises the role of girls and women in science and technology. In an interview, Prof Dr Ina Schiering, Vice President for Research, Development and Technology Transfer at Ostfalia University of Applied Sciences, gives insights into her personal career as a woman in science. Against this background, she will give tips and suggestions for young girls and women who are also aiming for a career in science.
Vera Huber, Ostfalia Editorial Team: What significance does the International Day of Women and Girls in Science have for you?
Prof Dr Ina Schiering: In my view, it is important to make it possible for women and girls - and other underrepresented groups in the context of diversity - to experience the opportunities to shape our society with science and technology. The International Day of Women and Girls in Science provides a platform to emphasise these opportunities and showcase role models who can inspire young women.
Career tips for women in science
What tips can you give women and girls who want to pursue a career in science?
Prof Schiering: They should go their own way and dare to address unusual topics or think differently about issues. It is important to be aware of your own strengths and weaknesses and to gain experience. In my experience, the basis for this is a sustainable, stable network. Networking and exchanging ideas with others can provide valuable support and inspiration.
How would you describe the course of your career?
Prof Schiering: Curiosity and the desire to create are central to my professional development. Working in interdisciplinary teams and the opportunity to research and work in new subject areas and contexts that are relevant to me makes my work particularly exciting. My research and teaching area of IT security and data protection offers a lot of potential in this regard. Switching between science and business, familiarising myself with new interdisciplinary areas of application and, more recently, my role as Vice President, provide me with opportunities for personal development.
More visibility for women in STEM subjects
How can the participation of girls and women in science be increased?
Prof Schiering: I'm curious to see what approaches and ideas have been successfully tried out and would be happy to try out new things. Despite many measures to get more girls and women interested in technical subjects, the proportion of female students and scientists in STEM subjects has not increased significantly in recent years. This trend starts at school and continues when it comes to choosing a degree programme and career. It is important to arouse interest at an early stage and create role models who show that a career in science and technology is achievable.
What motivated you to pursue a career in science and technology?
Prof Schiering : During my studies in computer science and subsequent doctorate, I was fascinated by the wide range of topics and applications of computer science and technology in general. The digital transformation still has the potential to shape the economy and society today. Following my doctorate in theoretical computer science, I consciously gained practical experience in business as a consultant and project manager. Through projects in various industries and international contacts, I was able to gain a lot of valuable experience. The opportunity to think theory and practice together, to constantly deal with innovations and to pass on my experience to students has motivated me to advance these topics in research, teaching and transfer within the university.
Is there a person who has particularly inspired you in this context?
Prof Schiering : In the field of science, I was particularly inspired by my doctoral supervisor. He supported everyone in our working group individually and with a great deal of empathy in their personal development and was always committed to young researchers. In addition, many people from my professional network in science and practice have accompanied me, sometimes for many years. I get a lot of important impulses from these people and can discuss and critically reflect on topics.
Ostfalia supports women who want to pursue an academic career, for example as a professor. Further information and contact for a personal exchange can be found here
