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Thermo Fisher’s “Her Science” program helps build a community for emerging women scientists

By Katie Panzica
Engagement Program Manager, Corporate Social Responsibility

 

When Zhang Yuanyuan speaks about her work, her voice carries both precision and purpose — the tone of someone who has found her place in science and is determined to use it for good. A doctoral student from Shanghai Tech University, Zhang’s fascination with biology began years ago, sparked by curiosity about how the smallest structures of life could yield some of the world’s biggest solutions.

Her choice to pursue a career in a STEM field was solidified after attending a panel of professional female scientists held at her university.  The panel, part of the Her Science campus tour, is an element of Thermo Fisher Scientific’s Female Scientist initiative, launched in collaboration with the China Women’s Development Foundation (CWDF) to engage and empower women in scientific research.

Zhang Yuanyuan in the lab Zhang Yuanyuan in the lab

During panel discussions, distinguished female scientists, including university deans and professors from participating universities, share insights into their career paths and achievements, then engage in lively discussions with students, providing valuable advice to help them prepare for their future. This year’s panel sessions kicked off in September at Shanghai University of Science and Technology, then at Dalian University of Technology and Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences and will conclude this month at Tsinghua University.

 

“Attending the Her Science panel was incredibly rewarding,” Zhang said. “Listening to senior female scientists share their personal stories made me realize there isn’t just one path to success in STEM. Their insights changed my mind — they showed me that what truly matters is finding the field you love and facing challenges honestly.”

Creating Space for Women in Science

In China, as in many countries around the world, women remain underrepresented in scientific and technical fields.

“Programs like Her Science are helping to create opportunities for young women to connect directly with role models who have navigated the same challenges they now face” said Julia Huang, public relations manager for Asia Pacific and Latin America and Thermo Fisher champion of the Her Science program. “Hearing stories of perseverance, success, and balance from accomplished scientists gives students both inspiration and the confidence to see themselves in similar roles.”

One of the stories that stayed with Zhang was that of Professor EnDuo Wang, who pursued postgraduate studies twice and devoted decades to chemical research.

Empowering the Next Generation of Scientists

 

Zhang’s experience captures what Her Science was designed to do: bridge the gap between aspiration and opportunity for young women in STEM. By connecting university students with female scientists who share their real-world experiences, the program fosters mentorship, community, and confidence.

 

For many students like Zhang, Her Science offers something even deeper — a sense of belonging.

 

 “It was the first time I heard women talk about balancing career and family,” she said. “It made me believe that we can do both — and do them well. When you hear other women talk about their struggles and successes, you realize you’re not alone.”

 

 Zhang was also inspired to join Her Science 2025 as a speaker, sharing her story with young women just beginning their scientific journey.

 

 “I want to tell them not to wait for everything to be perfect before starting,” she said. “Everyone has gaps in knowledge at the beginning. The important thing is to take the first step.”

Quotation marks
“It was the first time I heard women talk about balancing career and family,” she said. “It made me believe that we can do both — and do them well. When you hear other women talk about their struggles and successes, you realize you’re not alone.”
Zhang Yuanyuan

Thermo Fisher Scientific’s commitment to STEM access

 

 Her Science exemplifies Thermo Fisher’s commitment to expanding access to STEM education for all and empowering future innovators. Through collaborations with schools, universities, and non-profit organizations around the world, the company helps ensure that students of all backgrounds have the opportunity to discover their potential in science.

 

“By creating platforms that connect students like Zhang with mentors and role models, Thermo Fisher is helping to inspire the next generation of scientists who will drive progress in health, technology, and the environment,” said Julia. “Zhang’s journey is a testament to the impact of these efforts — proof that when opportunity and inspiration meet, science becomes not just a field of study, but a force for change”.