News Summary
On March 6, the UCLA Broad Stem Cell Research Center hosted its inaugural Women in Stem Cell Science Symposium, celebrating women’s achievements in STEM. The event gathered scientists and students, highlighting the need for equitable opportunities in research. Speakers shared insights on their groundbreaking work and the importance of fostering a supportive environment for future generations in the field. This symposium marks a significant moment in acknowledging the pivotal role of women in advancing science, underscoring that as women succeed, the entire scientific community thrives.
UCLA Shines Bright at Women in Stem Cell Science Symposium
In the sunny city of Los Angeles, a remarkable event took place on March 6, as the UCLA Broad Stem Cell Research Center hosted its inaugural Women in Stem Cell Science Symposium. This was no ordinary gathering; it was a celebration of the hard work, talent, and incredible achievements of women in the stem cell research field, all while honoring the center’s 20th anniversary.
A Salute to Women in Science
Imagine a room filled with enthusiastic scientists and eager students, all coming together to recognize the pivotal roles played by women in advancing STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics). The symposium kicked off with a warm welcome from Chancellor Julio Frenk, who emphasized the center’s impressive journey over the past two decades. He highlighted how women account for just one-third of researchers worldwide, underlining the necessity for equitable opportunities in science.
Frenk’s words resonated with many, as he underscored the center’s commitment to inspiring young girls from K-12 to dream big while training the next generation of scientists and championing female faculty and leaders within the academic community.
Meet the Innovators
The symposium featured a lineup of incredible speakers, including talented researchers like Aparna Bhaduri, Yvonne Chen, and Amander Clark. Each speaker shared insights into their groundbreaking work, captivating attendees with stories of resilience and innovation. Celia Adelson, the executive director of the center and mastermind behind this gathering, pointed out the many female scientists brought on board when the center first opened its doors. It was a moment of reflection, showing how far they have come.
Communication and Community
Judith Gasson, a professor emeritus who moderated the session, expressed the importance of communicating the center’s real-world impact. She noted that the UCLA stem cell community is brimming with strong, internationally recognized women who are making waves in their research fields. The symposium provided an excellent platform to showcase this work to the public, transforming stereotypes and inspiring future generations.
A Day of Learning and Inspiration
Fourth-year molecular, cell, and developmental biology student Celina Yu found the event particularly enriching, especially in terms of learning about career opportunities in STEM. The speakers shed light on the unique challenges they face and how they manage to balance their significant responsibilities with outreach efforts.
Yvonne Chen’s work revolves around developing T-cell cancer therapies, showcasing the innovative tactics scientists employ to combat cancer with engineered immune system cells. On the flip side, Aparna Bhaduri dives into human brain development and brain cancer research, tirelessly working to improve treatment options for patients.
Supportive Environment for Women
Interestingly, Bhaduri has received a lot of backing from her male colleagues, illustrating a much-needed shift towards inclusivity in the STEM field. Chen also conveyed her hope for a future where gender no longer dictates one’s career path. She envisions a space in which everyone can bring their unique strengths to the table, promoting a more equitable and thriving scientific community.
As Azra Cruz, another student attendee, pointed out, the symposium highlighted a truly supportive environment for women pursuing STEM disciplines. The excitement and intrigue surrounding the transformative potential of research at the stem cell center could be felt in the air, reminding everyone present of the thrill that comes with scientific discovery.
The inaugural Women in Stem Cell Science Symposium not only celebrated incredible minds and their contributions to science but also fostered a sense of community and inspiration, proving that when women succeed, we all succeed.
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Additional Resources
- Daily Bruin: Celebrating Women in Science
- Times of San Diego: UCSD’s 10th Annual Symposium
- Simi Valley Acorn: Santa Su Symposium on Biomedical Research
- Chan Zuckerberg Initiative: Meetings
- GEN: The Gene Therapy Show Must Go On
- Wikipedia: Stem Cell Research
- Google Search: Women in STEM
- Google Scholar: Women in Science
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Science
- Google News: STEM Research
