Applications are now open for career fellowships in the science industry to encourage women to stay in the field during motherhood or other carer roles.
The Inspiring Women Fellowships, valued at $150,000 each, will operate over three to five years and are designed to support women in the early and middle stages of their careers to remain in their profession while managing other responsibilities.
The Labor Government has also developed the Industry Internships Program, which is open to female honours and masters university students.
The internships program is designed to financially support Victorian businesses operating in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics environments to increase the number of women in the field.
The imbalance in the current workforce has led to an under-representation of women at the senior levels of scientific leadership. These programs are aimed at addressing the barriers faced by women trying to enter and re-enter the profession.
Funded through the Victorian Government’s Women in Science Program, the fellowships and internships are spearheaded by the Office of the Lead Scientist, Leonie Walsh.
Potential fellows and interns can apply at
Quotes attributable to Minister for Women, Fiona Richardson
“The Andrews Labor Government will stand up for women to ensure they have equal rights and opportunities within their chosen profession.”
“These fellowships have been designed to address the challenges that many women face in balancing their careers with motherhood or other significant carer roles.”
“The Labor Government is committed to ensuring a sound gender balance in science, particularly in senior and leadership roles.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020