11-02-2026
This Wednesday, February 11, marks the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, a date established by the United Nations in 2015 with the aim of promoting full and equal access to science and strengthening the participation of women and girls in this field. The occasion arises in a context where, despite the progress made in recent decades, gender stereotypes continue to influence academic and professional choices, shaping the paths of many young women.
Even so, the figures show encouraging signs. In Portugal, female participation in employment in science and technology is relatively high compared to the European average: about 52% of people employed in these areas are women, according to Eurostat data from 2023. Among scientists and engineers, the percentage is slightly lower but still remains above the European Union average, at around 49%.
Within this context is Mónica Gaboleiro, 31, a PhD student in Industrial Engineering and Management at DEMI, who represents a new generation of researchers. She acknowledges that gender still carries weight in everyday professional life. “Yes, it has an influence — although not always explicitly. Engineering remains a predominantly male field, which, in some contexts, may require women to make an additional effort to have their competence recognized.”
At the same time, she sees her own contribution in this journey. “I believe that my path as a woman has also contributed to a greater sensitivity toward issues such as ergonomics, workers’ health and well-being, and balancing performance with sustainability,” she emphasizes, pointing to more people-centered approaches that are increasingly valued in research and industry.
Her academic experience has been, she describes, both positive and demanding. “It is a path that requires resilience, confidence, and persistence, in a context marked by high pressure for results, publications, and funding,” she says. Even so, she considers it “a process of deep self-questioning, which pushes us out of our comfort zone but promotes very significant personal growth.”
Regarding opportunities for women in engineering, she argues that the priority should be equal conditions. “Equality does not mean creating specific advantages, but assessing each person based on their competence and work, regardless of gender.” She nevertheless highlights the importance of female role models throughout her journey, from family to academic settings, as a source of inspiration and proof that it is possible to occupy traditionally male-dominated spaces.
Balancing research, the business environment, and personal life remains one of the greatest challenges. “It’s not simple and requires constant balance. The key has been organization, flexibility, and support, both institutional and family,” she explains, arguing that science benefits when it connects more closely with the realities of companies, provided that conditions exist for a balanced life.
To attract more young women to engineering, Mónica points to the need for greater visibility and early action against stereotypes. “It’s important to show that there are women in engineering, at different stages of their careers, and that there isn’t a single ‘profile’ for being an engineer.”
Her final message is directed at students considering a research career: “Have the courage and boldness to be who you want to be, without letting yourself be limited by prejudice or stereotypes.”
On a day when we celebrate women and girls in science, her testimony reinforces the idea that the path is built through real opportunities, close role models, and persistence.
