You are here:
  1. Home
  2. Policy
  3. Women in science

Women in science

Understanding and addressing gender imbalances in the life sciences

  • Related link

FEBS | EMBO Women in Science Awardees

Policy Advisory Board

Related news

  • Contact
General email
Gerlind Wallon
  • Programme Head
  • +49 6221 8891 112

FEBS | EMBO Women in Science Awardees Sarah Teichmann (2023), Anne Ephrussi (2024) and Asifa Akhtar (2025)

EMBO has long queried the basis of gender imbalances in the life sciences. We carry out policy analyses and use the results to propose practical measures to mitigate gender imbalances in the life sciences. We also draw attention to positive stories and role models.

In the interest of science and society, it is important that the best scientists have the opportunity to pursue a career, and that it is not gender or any other secondary characteristic that determine the chances of success.

EMBO continually monitors its programmes to ensure gender balance and fair treatment, including researchers with family obligations. Annual statistics are published in EMBO Facts & Figures.

Latest engagements at conferences, session and reports:

Gender Roles and their Impact in Academia, 13-15 October 2020 
Conference co-organized by EMBO, EMBL and HHMI

During the conference participants explored how assigned gender roles influence academic selection and recruitment and discussed measures to overcome these effects.

Are Quotas the Right Answer? Manchester, UK, 27 July 2016
Session at ESOF

Exploring Quotas in Academia – A policy report on the effects of gender quotas to increase the participation of women in leadership positions in academic science in Europe.
September 2015

The FEBS | EMBO Women in Science Award highlights major contributions by female scientists to life sciences research. Winners of the award are inspiring role models for future generations of women in science.

The award is a joint initiative of EMBO and the Federation of European Biochemical Societies (FEBS).

Organizers of conferences funded through the EMBO Courses & Workshop Programme wishing to invite a scientist to speak about issues related to women in science are encouraged to apply for this lecture grant.

EMBO financially supports AcademiaNet, a database of leading female European scientists.

Related news