Local female scientists form community for public outreach

A small group of Birmingham women are creating an organization for women in scientific careers to network, mentor each other and learn how to share what they know with the broader community.

UAB infectious diseases professor Karen Fowler recently learned about 500 Women Scientists, a national group dedicated to more diversity in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) careers. When she contacted the group to find a Birmingham “pod,” as local chapters are called, Fowler was instead asked to create one herself.

“Women in science have come a long way, but they have a long way to go,” Fowler said. “There are times when colleagues cut women out … but there are times when we don’t speak up either.”

She and a group of about eight other women are the de facto leaders of Birmingham’s pod. They started reaching out to people at the Birmingham March for Science earlier this year, where about 100 people expressed interest in 500 Women Scientists. 

Though they’re just getting started, Fowler wants the group to be a place for networking and mentorship, particularly for young women and women of color in science.

500 Women Scientists can also be an educational source, and Fowler said she would like to see future members leading STEM training in schools or rural education programs. In the midst of divisive national discourse on topics such as climate change and vaccinations, Fowler said she’s worried young girls will be turned off from pursuing STEM careers. 

“We’re going to lose a generation of young women who probably have brilliant ideas,” Fowler said. “You need to see those role models who’ve made it.”

Fowler would like to position the Birmingham pod as a source of expert opinions when scientific issues come up in politics or the media. Part of that goal, she said, will be training members to speak and write in a way that is accessible to those outside their field.

“I would like to see scientists, but especially women scientists, speak up in the public discourse,” Fowler said.

She is planning an August social event for interested women, though details had not been finalized as of Iron City Ink’s press time. Find the Birmingham pod on Facebook or email 500womenscibhm@gmail.com for more information.