BIST Presents the Winners of the 4th Edition of the ‘To the Mothers of Science’ Programme, Including Two Inspiring Women from ICN2

by Arlet Lozano Arenas

Sonia Ruiz Raga, Senior Researcher in the Nanostructured Materials for Photovoltaic Energy Group, and Alba Garzón Manjón, Senior Researcher in the Advanced Electron Nanoscopy Group, have been awarded a financial stipend that serves as recognition of their simultaneous roles as both scientists and mothers.

Launched in 2018 by the Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), the Mothers of Science programme provides financial support and coaching sessions to female researchers working at BIST centers. Endorsed by the ICN2 Equal Opportunities Committee, this initiative is also integral to the III Equality of Opportunities & Diversity Management Plan 2023 - 2026, specifically outlined in Action 12. This action supports, among other activities, the attendance of conferences by non-permanent staff who are mothers. By recognizing their dual roles as scientists and mothers, the BIST programme guides them towards becoming trailblazers in their respective fields. Simultaneously, it seeks to address the gender gap in science industry leadership roles, particularly ensuring that caregiving and motherhood do not hinder their professional careers. The ultimate goal is to foster gender diversity, not only in research positions but also in leadership roles.

Therefore, the grant offers several benefits. Firstly, recipients obtain a monthly financial stipend for up to one year. This support aims to balance their professional duties and family responsibilities while aiding their research endeavours. Additionally, they engage in four coaching sessions led by Arantxa Gómez Esqué, an experienced coach specialised in scientific research. This course is designed to enhance their leadership skills, empowering them to advance in their careers and serve as role models for future generations.

Two inspiring, ambitious role models

Two ICN2 Senior Researchers and seven other BIST women scientists have been selected for this grant. Eligibility criteria include the candidates’ intention to progress in their professional careers. Moreover, applicants were evaluated based on their scientific excellence potential and motivation to pursue leadership positions in academia or industry.

The first, Sonia Ruiz Raga, contributes to the Nanostructured Materials for Photovoltaic Energy Group. She aims to lead groundbreaking research in photovoltaic materials, utilize AI for solar cell characterization, and explore photoelectrochemistry for sustainable fuel generation. The second recipient, Alba Garzón Manjón, is part of the Advanced Electron Nanoscopy Group. Her future professional objective is to establish a specialized group dedicated to sustainable energy solutions, employing state-of-the-art operando electron microscopy for catalyst development and correlation. Her vision is to understand and visualise mechanisms to revolutionize energy production and storage through innovation and interdisciplinary collaboration, setting a new standard in the field.

We extend our warmest congratulations to these two remarkable women. They truly deserve this recognition. Let their achievements continue to inspire us all!