Vol. 2 No. S2 (2025): Women in STEMM: Advancing Materials Science and Addressing Challenges in a Diverse World

This special issue of the inSTEMM Journal celebrates the invaluable contributions of women in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and Medicine (STEMM), with a particular focus on materials science and related disciplines. Inspired by the Women in STEMM Annual Meeting held as part of the ITSHER Initiative during the SNAIA CRISTMAS 2024 Conference, this collection highlights the innovative research presented by women working across diverse fields of materials science.

The issue includes extended abstracts from presentations delivered by leading women scientists, engineers, and technologists at Conference on Research and Innovations in Science and Technology of Materials 2024, held at the Ecole National Superior Chemie de Paris from 10th-13th December 2024. The conference spanned topics including advanced manufacturing, nanotechnology, quantum materials, photonics, energy systems, and biomaterials. By bringing together this body of work, the special issue aims to showcase the breadth of expertise and the transformative impact women have across the entire spectrum of materials research.

Additionally, the special issue will feature a dedicated article titled "Challenges and Opportunities for Women in STEMM", which explores the systemic barriers and societal pressures faced by women in STEMM fields. This article will include interviews with trailblazing role models who share their personal experiences, insights, and strategies for fostering inclusion and empowerment.

This special issue not only celebrates the achievements of women in STEMM but also provides a platform for discussing actionable steps towards building a more equitable and inclusive scientific community.

Editors:

• Anna Baldycheva, University of Exeter, UK
• Kseniia Mamaeva, Trinity College, University of Dublin, Ireland
• Iveta Steblevska, Queen's University, Canada