The Magazine
The Magazine
Did you know only a third of the world’s researchers are women?
Engineers and scientists are fundamental in shaping the world around us – especially when it comes to our health. So, it really matters that our scientists reflect the diverse society we serve. We often refer to these career types as STEM - Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics. Whilst the percentage of female graduates with core STEM degrees is steadily growing, the number of young girls and women pursuing fields such as engineering and mathematics is static in the UK.
Our brands are loved and trusted by millions around the world and behind every product we create is the quality and integrity of our science. Whether that is developing our latest breakthrough Sensodyne formula, or a new Real-World Evidence study on Centrum, trusted science is the cornerstone of everything we do.
We partnered with the Brooklands Innovation Academy, a programme that inspires and supports young people to become the next generation of scientists and engineers. Recently our team of scientists and engineers had the privilege of leading a STEM event with 400 students. Seeing sparks fly amongst students whilst demonstrating the chemistry of toothpaste really reminded me of the importance of making science relevant to real life.
I often ask young students what they think a scientist looks like. If I had a pound for every time a student says a scientist looks like someone in a white lab coat standing at a bench I’d be a very rich woman. Whilst this is very true, what they don’t realise is that science so much more than that. Part of our work in the community is to break this ideology and show the breadth of career opportunities that exist.
When you’re growing up, you don’t know what you don’t know. When I was at school I knew I was good at maths and science so thought the only option would be to become a maths or science teacher or maybe a doctor. No-one told me about the world of career opportunities out there and I think these barriers still exist today.