“Society and the scientific community can’t bear to lose out anymore on what women bring to science, innovation and advancement”, states Prof. Jens Kreisel, rector of the University. “We need to become actors of a cultural shift, of a change in perspectives and expectations. Who is better suited for this then inspiring women researchers?”
The University has implemented several programmes to support female researchers, such as the Marie Speyer Excellence Grants, and the ADVANCE Mentoring programme, which matches experienced scientists with doctoral or postdoctoral female researchers. “In just two years, 120 mentees participated in the ADVANCE programme. Behind this, there are close to fifty mentor – men and women senior scientists – who realise the need for more diversity and equality in science”.
With a shared commitment to highlighting the journeys of women in science, the Research Luxembourg member institutions return with the 4th season of “Women in Science”. For the first time, the video series is accompanied by a Mentoring Pilot Programme, connecting the researchers with Uni.lu Master students who are interested in pursuing their studies.
Be brave – Women & Girls in Science 2025
The six women presented in the video series each represent different institutions, scientific disciplines, backgrounds, and the wide range of career opportunities that science degrees offer. Two University scientists took part this year:
‟ Now may be the best time ever to start a career in science as a woman. Policy makers recognise the importance of women’s presence in science and are supporting it. So put yourself out there.”
Doctoral researcher in computer sciences, immersive technologies
‟ I don’t fit in any box and you don’t have to either. Being a scientist doesn’t mean limiting yourself to one role.”
Partnership Development Officer, LCSB Bioincubator
First Student Mentoring Programme
The Pilot Science Mentoring Programme facilitates links between women researchers and female master students at the University of Luxembourg. This initiative encourages aspiring women to pursue research careers by providing them with mentors and role models, thus helping to bridge the gender gap in research fields, especially in STEM.
The programme runs in collaboration with the ADVANCE mentoring programme of the University of Luxembourg. Students will be paired with mentors from similar research fields and meet from March to June to discuss research careers and work on individual objectives. Meetings include lab visits, discussions, and a final wrap-up, with participants encouraged to share their progress via social media.
The campaign runs until the 8 March and is organised in collaboration with the Ministry for Gender Equality and Diversity and the Ministry of Research and Higher Education.
More information can be found on Research Luxembourg.