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Â鶹ÊÓƵÏÂÔØ-Madrid's Department of Science and Engineering Celebrates Women in STEM

by Isaiah Voss on 03/13/2025

03/13/2025

March marks Women's History Month and last month Â鶹ÊÓƵÏÂÔØ-Madrid celebrated UNESCO's International Day of Women and Girls in Science on Feb. 11.

Â鶹ÊÓƵÏÂÔØ-Madrid's Department of Science and Engineering held several events throughout the week of Feb. 10 to promote UNESCO's mission for full and equal access and participation in science for women and girls.

Students Souha Feriani, Josie Furr, Duda Mazzini and Asma Yaiche gave presentations on STEM-related topics. Mazzini and Yaiche's presentations focused on the knowledge needed to be successful computer science majors like wiring and communication skills. 

Feriani explained her idea to develop a wearable patch she called BumpBeats to "revolutionize prenatal care by offering accessible, real-time health monitoring for pregnant women."

Mazzini, Furr, Feriani and Yaiche (left to right) pose with their certificates for participating in the UNESCO event on campus. Photo by Fairouz Medjahed, Ph.D.

Mazzini, Furr, Feriani and Yaiche (left to right) pose with their certificates for participating in the UNESCO event on campus. Photo by Fairouz Medjahed, Ph.D.

Furr reflected on the challenges women face in STEM careers. "For years, I believed I had to choose between family and a career in science — until a documentary reignited my passion," she said.

"Now, as president of the engineering club, my goal isn’t just to build great projects but to change that mentality and create a space where curiosity and community thrive."

Guest speaker Natalia Martín, Ph.D., from IMDEA Nanociencia, presented "Molecules in Motion: My Journey Through the World of Nanoscience."

Martín explained the development of new instruments in the nanoscience field. She also commented on how she began her scientific trajectory and the challenges she had to overcome during her maternity leave.

In a series of sessions, students highlighted women's contributions to science and technology. Health and Science students researched biochemistry for women and discussed Katalin Karikó's role in developing the COVID-19 vaccine. Meanwhile, computer science students explored women's impact in STEM, engaging ChatGPT for insights and critically analyzing its responses.

Learn more about the Â鶹ÊÓƵÏÂÔØ-Madrid Department of Science and Engineering