UCC Celebrates International Day of Women and Girls in Science

9 Feb 2026

The International Day of Women and Girls in Science, celebrated annually on 11 February, highlights ongoing global efforts to achieve full and equal access to STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) education and careers.

Established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2015, the day addresses a significant gender gap where women constitute only about 31% of researchers globally. 

In Ireland, recent findings reveal concerning disparities at secondary level. A 2024 survey showed that approximately 16% of Irish secondary schools do not offer all three Leaving Certificate science subjects (physics, chemistry, and biology). Some schools offer none at all, disproportionately limiting STEM pathways for girls. Only 68% of girls’ schools offer STEM subjects beyond the basics, while 92% of boys’ schools offer all three. 

Against this backdrop, the College of Science, Engineering and Food Science (SEFS) Equality, Diversity & Inclusion (EDI) Committee at University College Cork (UCC) organised a special gathering to celebrate women working across science-based careers and roles. The event aimed to showcase the diverse and non-linear career journeys available in science, and to highlight the vital contributions of women in academia, research, technical roles, management, and professional support. 

UCC’s own community of students also plays a central part in fostering positive change, with female-led and female-supporting societies including WiSTEM and EPONA (Equal Physics Opportunities Network in Academia) demonstrating leadership, collaboration and a commitment to equity. 

Festivities for International Day of Women and Girls in Science began with a gathering of female staff and students in UCC’s Aula Maxima on 5 February.  

Professor Jennifer Mahony, Chair of the SEFS EDI Committee commented:  

“We hope to inspire young girls and women in Ireland; to shine a light on the inequity in the education system, to start the conversation about what disciplinary gendered norms really mean, and how we can encourage positive change.  

It is not due to a lack of ability, ambition, or interest, only societal acceptance. We can all create change by raising awareness of inequity, by challenging our own understanding of disciplinary norms and removing barriers for others where it is in our power to do so”. 

The celebration also included a networking session featuring a visual display spotlighting senior female academics across the college. These leaders shared insights into what inspired their scientific careers, providing visibility and encouragement for the next generation. Colleagues from UCC's College of Medicine and Health also participated, contributing to a welcoming and supportive community atmosphere. 

This event marks the first SEFS EDI initiative of 2026, with more activities planned throughout the year. All EDI events, training opportunities and dates of note will be available on UCC’s Equality, Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging Calendar. 

The SEFS EDI Committee reaffirmed its core message: EDI is for everyone. By creating an environment where people can see a place for themselves, the UCC community can grow and thrive, much like the symbolic oak tree in the Lower Grounds of the university.