Despite progress, the gender gap in science remains real – and it often widens as careers advance. This women in science interview highlights the personal journey of an early-career researcher and shows why visibility, role models, and inclusion still matter in STEM today.
According to UNESCO, women make up just 33.3% of researchers worldwide, and the gap increases at later career stages. The pipeline challenge starts early: women represent only 35% of STEM graduates globally, a figure that has shown little progress over the past decade. These numbers underline why representation and visibility are not optional – they are essential.
On the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, EXPLORA is spotlighting voices that inspire belonging and persistence in research. Today, we share a women in science interview with Maria Gabriela Alvarez Rodriguez, an early-career scientist at Miguel Hernández University of Elche (UMH), whose story is rooted in curiosity, perseverance, and the power of mentorship.
Interview: A personal journey into science
Curiosity as the starting point
Q: What was the exact moment you realized you wanted to be a scientist?
A: “I don’t really remember an exact moment, but I know that curiosity has been with me since I was a child. I have always found it important to understand why things happen and the processes behind them.”
Advice to her younger self
Q: If you could go back and talk to your 10-year-old self, what would you tell her about your career today?
A: “If I could speak to Gabi at that age, I would tell her not to be afraid to try new things and to truly follow her vocation. The career I am pursuing now is truly beautiful and is allowing me to grow both professionally and personally. In science, you get to meet so many valuable people who share your curiosity and help you expand your knowledge. Sometimes the roads we walk are not the ones we imagine, but they are always worth walking.”
The power of female role models
Q: Who was the first female scientist who inspired you, and why?
A: “The first female references in science that I remember are two high school teachers. From the very beginning, they knew how to convey their passion for science and their enthusiasm for research. Later, during my degree, I also had great role models who helped me clarify my doubts and encouraged me to take the leap into research.”
Debunking myths about women in science
Q: What is one myth about being a “woman in science” that you’d like to debunk?
A: “‘There are few outstanding women in science because there is no female talent’. This is a myth.
Throughout history, women like Rosalind Franklin made crucial contributions. Her X-ray diffraction work was essential to the discovery of DNA’s structure, yet her contribution was often overlooked.
Today, scientists like Spanish researcher and astronaut Sara García Alonso continue to break barriers, proving that female talent in STEM is undeniable. Recognizing these achievements is key to inspiring future generations.”
A message to girls who hesitate
Q: What message do you want to send to a girl who loves science but is afraid it might be “too hard”?
A: “Don’t let fear hold you back. Every day in the lab is a challenge, but it’s incredibly rewarding when you see your goals being achieved. You don’t have to be perfect; curiosity and perseverance matter more than anything else. Trust yourself, take small steps, and remember: the world needs your ideas, your questions, and your voice in science.”
Breaking myths and building the future
The myth Maria Gabriela calls out – the idea that “female talent” is lacking – persists because recognition hasn’t always been equal, and stereotypes still shape who feels they belong in STEM.
But the reality is clear: talent is everywhere. And when women’s contributions are visible, celebrated, and supported, the future of science becomes stronger, more diverse, and more innovative – for everyone.
A message to the next generation
If you’re a girl who loves science but is hesitating: you don’t need to be perfect to belong here.
“You don’t have to be perfect; curiosity and perseverance matter more than anything else.”
EXPLORA’s Commitment to Women in Science
EXPLORA supports the growth and visibility of women in science, because scientific excellence thrives when diverse voices are heard, valued, and empowered. By amplifying personal stories, fostering inclusive dialogue, and supporting early-career researchers, EXPLORA works to create a research ecosystem where talent can flourish regardless of gender. On International Day of Women and Girls in Science – and every day – we reaffirm our commitment to a future where curiosity, opportunity, and innovation are open to all.
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