International Women’s Day 2025 at MPI-FKF
On this International Women’s Day, we take a moment to celebrate the contributions of women in science at the Max Planck Institute for Solid State Research. Across our departments, women are pushing the boundaries of knowledge, driving innovation, and shaping the future of STEM. We interviewed 8 of our researchers, and asked them about their experiences, challenges, and hopes for the future of diversity and inclusion in science.
Overcoming Barriers in STEM
Despite progress, women in STEM continue to face obstacles, from gender biases to disproportionate caregiving responsibilities. Postdoctoral researcher Caiyun Chen points out that these obstacles are exacerbated by societal conditioning leading women to undervalue their skills. Women also face higher rates of bias and microaggressions, contributing to this attrition. Addressing these issues requires continuous effort and structural change. An active effort across all genders and all levels of society is needed. “The barriers in STEM for women are still many, especially with respect to access to leading positions,” notes Laura Guasco, a researcher exploring on structural and magnetic modification of heterostructures. Maneesha Ismail, a PhD student focused on scanning tunneling microscopy, highlights the additional hurdles faced by women from underrepresented backgrounds: “The act of higher education itself is an act of courage […] women from an underrepresented community are more prone to unconscious bias or extra scrutiny.” Caiyun lists a range of further solutions that could help: financial grants targeting underrepresented groups, fostering gender-neutral education, and implementing institutional policies that support work-life balance, such as parental leave and flexible work hours.
While challenges remain, our researchers also see encouraging signs. Programs like Girls’ Day introduce young students to STEM fields and help to break down stereotypes. Seeing women in leadership positions further helps this process. “Being a part of a female-led, highly international department, I don’t have to look too far for an example of the progress we make towards a more inclusive world in science,” says Kristina Gjorgjevikj, who is researching on robust dynamics in Metal-Organic Frameworks in the department led by Prof. Bettina Lotsch.
Another example of progress at MPI-FKF is the Athena Group, which fosters an inclusive environment by actively listening to challenges facing women and working toward solutions. Many of our scientists credit their success to strong support systems. “I am grateful for the network of people I got to work with through the years, from my mentors to my collaborators,” shares Laura. There is also the fellowship Zia – Visible Women in Science & Humanities. PhD student Martina Paetsch writes that this fellowship “has allowed [her] to get to know women from a wide range of research areas and in different stages of their careers.” Good professional relationships were continuously emphasized by our scientists: “You need to feel comfortable with people to throw out all of your ideas,” writes postdoctoral researcher Steph Lambie.
For many, this progress is personal. PhD student Esengül Çiftçi comes from a region where education is often denied to women, and gender-based violence remains a serious issue. As the only one among her seven siblings to attend university—thanks to a ÇYDD scholarship supporting girls’ education—she saw many childhood friends married off despite their potential. During her PhD, she witnessed growing support for women and emphasized the importance of cultural integration. At the Max Planck Institute, diversity helped her adapt. Now, she mentors young women in her country, supporting their education. She raises her voice for those silenced, echoing Jin, Jiyan, Azadî (Women, Life, Freedom). “Success in science isn’t about an easy path—it’s about passion and resilience. I celebrate International Women’s Day in honor of all hardworking women.”
A similar story was told by Maneesha, who writes that in her hometown, pursuing physics and mathematics as a woman was not encouraged, and studying in different countries before marriage or without a male partner was criticized. “But as I consistently followed my passion for science for the past few years, I could see that people are accepting new possibilities,” she writes. “It especially warms my heart to see young girls in my school get in touch with me. Seeing people to whom you can relate can boost your confidence to follow your dream."
Advice for Young Women in STEM
Navigating a career in STEM can be both exhilarating and demanding. Many of our researchers encourage young women to embrace curiosity and confidence. “Find a topic that motivates you and jump into it,” says Laura. “Never be afraid to ask questions.” Maneesha echoes this sentiment: “Be curious and leave your comfort zone from time to time.”
Several researchers emphasize the importance of resilience and self-belief. “You are just as capable as everyone else in the room with you,” writes Steph. Similarly, Kristina urges young women to “believe and advocate for yourself, stay resilient, and never stop being curious.” Cissy Suen, a PhD student using spectroscopic techniques to study quantum materials, adds, “Ask for help! Having great mentors to talk to about science, work-life balance, and careers is immensely helpful.”
The Power of Diversity in Science
Diversity in science is not just about representation—it is essential for progress. Steph quotes Noble laureate Alan MacDiarmid: “Science is people.” Scientific discovery thrives on a multitude of perspectives, ensuring that research is holistic, innovative, and impactful. Kristina cites multiple benefits for diversity: “Research shows that diverse teams perform much better than homogeneous ones. [Additionally, it] promotes understanding and tolerance, improves communication skills and broadens one’s understanding of the world.”
Cissy shares an international perspective: “My doctoral studies took place between three different countries […] and without this collaboration I would’ve never been able to bring my project to fruition!” Martina also points out diversity “reduces the risk of narrow thinking and promotes gaining new perspectives and approaches.” Maneesha writes science “is like solving a puzzle that requires pieces of all sizes and shapes —a collective of scientists with different skill sets, approaches, perspective and journeys.”
Looking Forward
Science is at its best when it reflects the diversity of the world it seeks to understand. At MPI-FKF, we are proud of the women in our institute who challenge conventions, mentor future scientists, and pave the way for a more inclusive future. Their journeys—full of curiosity, resilience, and discovery—serve as an inspiration to us all.
Today, we celebrate them and reaffirm our commitment to building an equitable world in science. Happy International Women’s Day!