Face of the future in science workforce
WOMEN make up only 15 pc of the science, technology and engineering and maths (STEM) workforce. Just under a quarter of women science students say they will not make, or are not sure about making, a career in science. But Dr Aarti Jaganath, whose speciality is cell biology, says: ‘I am starting my own research group at Oxford University, studying the biology underlying the 24-hour body clock, with my L’Oreal-UNESCO For Women in Science Fellowship award. ‘Science involves long unsociable hours, but there is flexibility and independence. It is a long, slow career trajectory, but provides enormous job satisfaction. ‘I love science for the intellectual challenge and freedom to ask questions. I also find interacting with students and teaching rewarding. I get to do a hobby for a job.’ Steve Shiel, scientific director L’Oreal UK & Ireland, where 70 pc of research and innovation employees are women, says: ‘We look for dynamic and creative researchers with strong scientific expertise and who are committed to driving innovation and developing industry-leading products. ‘We want candidates who are open-minded and curious.’ The company offers internships and apprenticeships as well as funding postgraduate scientific researchers. See womeninscience.co.uk. Audrey McCulloch, senior director at scientific recruitment specialist SRG, says: ‘Since the start of 2016, we have seen an increase in vacancies ‘The skills shortage is the most acute I have seen since 1999, and most candidates have several job offers to choose from. So far Brexit has not adversely affected the market.’