Macedon Ranges women hoping to make a difference and pursue a career in science, technology, engineering or mathematics (STEM) can now apply for scholarship support.
With women making up just 35 per cent of STEM workers, international women’s organisation Zonta is helping to support and empower through career opportunities and leadership roles.
Retired medical research scientist and Kyneton resident Rose Ffrench knows all too well the value women can bring in saving lives.
Throughout her 30-year career, Ms Ffrench helped to develop and trial HIV, flu and COVID vaccines, and held positions at Monash University, Burnet Institute, St Vincent’s, World Health Organisation and Australia’s Therapeutic Goods Administration.
Ms Ffrench said support from two female professors when studying helped guide her in a field that was dominated by men and lacked initiatives to keep women in research.
“Initiatives like the scholarships Zonta offers to young women studying STEM subjects are terrific for raising awareness and increasing participation,” she said.
The award, valued at $1000, is open to Macedon Ranges women who are pursuing a STEM-related program at an accredited institute and who demonstrate outstanding potential.
Applications close July 20.
Details: secretary@zontakyneton.org.au or www.zonta.org
Zoe Moffatt
