British researcher Abigail Tucker visits PUCRS

Coordinator of project Women in Science at King’s College London came to University on Wednesday, Aug 24

Earlier this week, PUCRS welcomed King’s College London (UK) researcher, Dr. Abigail Tucker, representing the project Women in Science, in partnership with UFRGS. Abigail came to PUCRS on Wednesday, Aug 24, with an agenda filled with activities on Campus, which included meetings with researchers and students.

In the morning, Tucker was welcomed at the Office for International Cooperation to learn more about PUCRS. Then, she got to know the facilities of the Brain Institute of Rio Grande do Sul and its research lines. In the afternoon, she met with the mentors of the project at Living 360º, where participants had the chance to hear a little more about her and discuss the challenges of a scientific career.

15 STEM students have been advised since May by 3 mentors and 2 professors from PUCRS. The mentoring program includes conversation circles with researchers, presentations and visits to University facilities.

Gender equality in scientific careers

Later in the afternoon, an event at Living 360º, open to the public, gave the audience an opportunity to exchange experiences and information on gender equity. In her speech, the talked about her career at King’s College London, the challenges of motherhood during her scientific career and the important support she received from peers and managers.

Abigail also presented data from the survey launched at International Women’s Day 2022, carried out in partnership with Ipsos. The survey was conducted in 30 countries, with a total of 20,524 adults being interviewed. The study shows that the majority of people agree that gender inequality exists, whereas a small minority believe that it does not (18%). As for Brazilian respondents, only 12% believe that inequality does not exist. The survey also shows that when asked whether men have lost economic, political or social power as a result of feminism, 13% of Brazilian respondents agree, while 63% disagree.

The British researcher also presented good practices at the British institution, such as the Athena Swan Charter, a national award that recognizes the advancement of gender equality in higher education, covering representation, progression and success for all. Created in 2005, the initiative aims to encourage and recognize the commitment to advancing the careers of women in STEM areas, employed in higher education and research.

On Thursday and Friday, Abigail will be joining activities related to the project at UFRGS and will also visit PUCRS’ Science and Technology Museum on Saturday. To find out more about Women in Science, please click here.