February 11th marks the International Day of Women and Girls in Science. In celebration of this occasion, we invited three scientists at Citryll to reflect on their journeys in science and share their perspectives on women in biotech. Meet Sangeeta Kumari, Tirza Bruurmijn and Annemarie Kip as they discuss their motivations, daily experiences, and advice for the next generation of women in science.
Sangeeta Kumari, Senior Scientist
1. Who or what motivated you to pursue a career in science?
I have always had an inclination toward science, particularly in the field of medical biology. During my bachelor studies, biotechnology was introduced as a subject, and the professor’s teaching was so motivating and inspiring that it gave me a new path to pursue my career in science. I owe a lot to those lectures for the career I have today.
2. What part of your day to day as a scientist do you enjoy the most?
At Citryll, we’re diving into relatively new scientific territory, this means there are lots of unanswered questions. I love that about my work — experiment results often surprise you and push the boundaries of knowledge and imagination. These unexpected challenges keep my curious mind engaged and excited.
3. How do you view the landscape for women in biotech? Has it changed since you started your career?
Overall, women make significant contributions at various levels in the biotech industry, but the percentage of women in leadership roles still needs to increase substantially. More women are in scientist and technician positions, where they lead major projects, conduct crucial experiments, and generate important data. However, when it comes to leadership and executive roles, gender disparity remains a challenge. This is a disappointing reality, as strong role models are essential to inspire more women in the field. That said, the situation has improved in recent years, with more women scientists gaining recognition, receiving prestigious awards, and leading scientific discussions. Despite these positive developments, further efforts are needed to ensure women take on leadership roles in biotech, hold key positions, and break gender biases and stereotypes. Additionally, women who have already achieved leadership positions should actively support and mentor emerging talent. They must step forward to uplift and empower the next generation of women leaders in biotech.
Tirza Bruurmijn, Senior Research Associate
1. What part of your day to day as a scientist do you enjoy the most?
I really like the versatility. Science is constantly evolving, and every experiment or research project comes with its own unique set of challenges.
2. How do you view the landscape for women in biotech? Has it changed since you started your career?
When I started my career in biotech/science a few years ago, I was given a fair chance to succeed. It’s been great to see the continued progress of women in the space, and I’m hopeful that things will only keep improving for future generations!
3. What advice would you give to young women and girls wanting to pursue a career in science?
My advice would be to follow your passion. If science excites you, then go for it! The world needs more curious, driven women in science.
Annemarie Kip, Scientist
1. Who or what motivated you to pursue a career in science?
From a young age, I was fascinated by nature—how intricately every living being functions and how they are all connected. This curiosity led me to pursue a degree in Biology. Through a combination of choices and chance, I eventually found my path as a scientist in biotech.
2. How do you view the landscape for women in biotech? Has it changed since you started your career?
This is my first role in biotech, so I can’t say for certain whether my perspective at Citryll reflects the industry as a whole. However, I do see many women across the industry in early career roles and I hope this representation continues to grow with increasingly more women in senior positions. I believe that women should chase their ambitions, if you want something enough there are no boundaries to what you can do!
3. What advice would you give to young women and girls wanting to pursue a career in science?
Stay true to yourself & don’t be scared to follow your heart.