Professors, data engineers, and researchers. All of them are the women behind WORMACS2.0, working to develop a pipeline for helminth vaccine development. They explore the immunology of infections, analyse antibody immune response, create databases, produce possible vaccine candidates, and more.

They are living proof that to tackle health challenges effectively, we must harness all talent and ensure that all those interested in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) can pursue these careers, whatever their gender may be. In reality, however, women often still face significant challenges in accessing education and work positions in these fields, with the share of women globally only representing 35% of STEM graduates and holding only a quarter of science, engineering and ICT jobs.

To celebrate the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, we spoke with some of the women who are part of the WORMVACS2.0 consortium, asking them to share their experiences and advice for others.