Celebrating the Women Behind FORCE REPAIR on International Day of Women and Girls in Science

Today, on the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, we honour the incredible contributions of women in STEM fields. At FORCE REPAIR, we are proud to have talented and dedicated women shaping the future of chronic wound management. Their work not only drives scientific innovation but also creates a lasting impact on society.

Throughout the day, we have highlighted the inspiring voices of some of the women working on FORCE REPAIR. They have shared their experiences, challenges, and hopes for the future of women in science.

Here are some of their powerful words:

When asked about the challenges she had to overcome in her career, Elisabeth said: “I have always had high expectations from myself, both regarding my scientific work and my family duties. I feel I always have to justify any of my decisions, despite excellent understanding and support from my scientific mentors and managers, colleagues and relatives, including my highly supportive husband. Discussions with all of them was the clue! I do believe that face-to-face communication will never be replaced by any electronic alternative. Meanwhile, I do fear that we sometimes get close from George Orwell’s concerns in his 1984 famous novel.”

When asked about the challenges she had to overcome in her career, Petra said: “Quite often, seemingly great ideas, thoughtful planning and working in a good team still are no guarantee for success. Many times, it happens that one fails, needs to stop and start all over for various different reasons (e.g., theory and reality did not match, technical possibilities were not available /not advanced enough at the time, company strategies changed, (financial) support of a project ended, etc.). It takes a very high frustration tolerance and stamina to bring projects to a positive end. It helps seeing problems as a challenge to perform better/wiser, and most of all, to discuss difficulties in a team of people with various backgrounds and experience to incorporate as much knowledge as possible.“

Petra’s vision for the future of women in science is: “Hearing anecdotes from women in different places and watching the news, I realized that I was lucky to have grown up in a family and a cultural environment where it was not questioned if - as a girl - I would be fit for the task! I hope that one day this will be worldwide standard, in science and beyond.”

These women remind us that diversity in science leads to stronger research, fresh perspectives, and more impactful discoveries. Their passion and dedication serve as an inspiration to the next generation of scientists.

As we celebrate this day, let’s continue to support and empower women in science, ensuring that their contributions are recognized and their voices are heard.