The Power of Scientific Vocation on the International Day of Women and Girls in Science

Every February 11, we celebrate the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, a day dedicated to highlighting the vital contributions of women across scientific fields and encouraging girls to pursue careers in research and technology.

At IVIRMA Global Education, we recognize the challenges women face in scienece. We are in constant contact with leading scientists in reproductive medicine and collaborate with future trailblazers who participate in our courses and programs.

While we acknowledge the significant progress made in increasing the representation of women in science, we understand there is still much work to be done to achieve gender equality in the scientific community.

To shed light on this, we spoke with four women scientists from various fields within  reproductive medicine. They shared their passion for science and reflections on female inclusion in research.

Ludovica Picchetta: A Curiosity Born in Childhood
Clinical and Research Scientist at Juno Genetics

Since childhood, Ludovica has been captivated by science.Every Christmas, she asked for a microscope, even examining her own blood. Today, her childhood curiosity has transformed into a rewarding career.

Ludovica emphasizes that “a good scientist must have creativity, patience, knowledge, and a continuous drive to learn and discover new things every day.” These qualities are not bound by gender—they are shared by both men and women.

She also believes that while vocation is crucial, are role models play an essential part in inspiring others. “We must encourage more girls to pursue their scientific dreams,” she asserts.

María José de los Santos: The Discipline of Research
Senior Embryologist, IVF Lab Coordinator at IVI RMA Global

María José  once dreamed of becoming a classical ballet dancer, but science ultimately led her down a different path. For her, research is cornerstone of advancement in medicine, engineering,and economics.

She draws inspiration from female role models such as Jean Purdy, Anna Veiga, and Gloria Calderón, whose work in the 1990s shaped science in SpainInternationally, she acknowledges pioneers like Lucinda L. Veeck, Catherine Racowsky, and Kerti Lundin, and as well as colleagues like Ana Cobo. “These women have been instrumental in shaping the future of women in science,” she says.

To improve female inclusion in science, María José stresses the importance of science communication: “Female scientists are often so focused on the lab that we forget how crucial it is to share our contributions and inspire the next generation.”

Sandra Sala: A Vocation for Care
Nurse, External Medical Coordinator, Women's Comprehensive Health at IVI Valencia

For Sandra Sala, nursing was her first step into science, inspired by a hospital stay during her teenage years. While she may not consider herself a scientist, her work in an innovative, research-driven environment proves otherwise.

Sandra advocates for encouraging girls and women to explore their abilities and develop a growth mindset. Promoting personal values and offering opportunities is essential for women to thrive and achieve their own success,” she emphasizes.

She also believes families play a critical role in  fostering a young girls’ interest in science encouraging them curiosity from an early age.

Jessica Subirá: A Passion for Reproductive Medicine
Gynecologist, Specialist in Reproductive Medicine at IVI Valencia

As a child, Jessica considered studying Law or Journalism, driven by her love for debate and sense of justice. However, discovering biology led her to a career in reproductive medicine, where she practices with a strong scientific foundation.

“A good doctor must be a good scientist because our clinical practice is rooted in evidence,” Jessica explains. She advocates for more women to enter technology-driven scientific fields to break stereotypes and promote diversity.

Jessica also highlights that while women are increasingly present in health sciences, there are still fewer women in other technology-focused scientific fields to break stereotypes and promote diversity.

Jessica also highlights that while women are increasingly present in health sciences, there are still fewer women in technology-focused disciplines. “Cultural expectations have often been led to believe they belong in caregiving roles. While this may be a personal choice, it’s important to challenge and create more equitable scientific opportunities for all.”

More Women, More Science

The stories of Ludovica, María José, Sandra, and Jessica are a testament to the strength of vocational passion and the importance of female role models in inspiring young girls to pursue science. They all agree that increasing women’s participation in research depends on confidence, recognition, and better science communication.

On this International Day of Women and Girls in Science, their voices remind us that curiosity, passion, and perseverance are like reproductive cells—when they take root, they have the power to transform the future of humanity