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International Day of Women & Girls in Science

International Day of Women & Girls in Science — Honor women’s significant achievements in science and place a much-needed focus on girls entering Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) careers.

Clinical research offers pathways for women to enter and excel in science and math related fields, providing roles such as researchers, clinical coordinators, data analysts, statisticians, programmers, and regulatory professionals. Advocating for gender-balanced research teams ensure diverse perspectives in scientific studies, which fosters equitable representation and improves study outcomes.

Women constitute a substantial portion of the clinical research workforce. The following statistics show progress with women’s involvement in clinical research, but also highlight the need for initiatives that promote and support women’s advancement in leadership roles.

  • In the United States, women represent nearly 55% of U.S. medical students, 38% of U.S. physicians, and 90% of the nursing workforce. ACRP. Approximately 81% of Clinical Research Coordinators are female, while 19% are male. Career Explorer
  • In the EU, a 2019 analysis found that women comprised approximately 30.1% of principal investigators (PIs) in clinical trials.
  • In the UK, 2020-2021 period indicates only 28% of principal investigator (PI) awards were granted to women,
  • Globally:
    • There has been a notable increase in female principal investigators, rising from 27% in 2005 to approximately 39.6% in 2023. Healio
    • An analysis of randomized clinical trials published from 2000 to 2019 found that women comprised only 15.6% of trial leadership positions. Healio
    • Publicly funded studies show a higher percentage of female leadership compared to industry-funded trials. Stanford Medicine
    • Women hold about 25% of health leadership roles in clinical research. ACRP
    • Studies indicate that women hold approximately 15% of CEO positions in healthcare organizations. JAMA Network

Aixial Group, as a global Clinical Research Organization (CRO), supports initiatives that promote gender equity and representation, including empowering women in science. Our internal efforts that generate a more inclusive and supportive environment for women in science globally include:

  1. Established internship programs.
  2. Collaboration with universities and schools to encourage women to consider careers in science.
  3. Exposure to research specific to women’s health issues to inspire women to pursue careers in science and contribute to solutions.
  4. Offer mentorship programs and leadership development, helping women advance to prominent positions in the industry.
  5. Established policies that promote workplace equality.
  6. Have a diverse group of international women in leadership positions that are visible, accessible, and positive role models.

Data shows meaningful efforts to balance gender representation in STEM based fields is effective. Current examples include:

  • France, a country with significant gender equality investments, has 65% of the physicians being <40 years old and female.
  • Aixial’s management levels are at least 60% female (details below) and over 60% of our projects are repeat partnerships.
    • Team Lead or Manager: 75%
    • Director Level: 75%
    • Heads of Department: 75%
    • Executive Level: 60%

Aixial will continue creating opportunities and ensuring equity for women in math and science. For the young women in algebra, biology, chemistry, coding, or physics class, we hope to inspire curiosity and foster confidence.

Research for this blog was assisted by AI

Written by

Crista Casey (she/her)

Biologist, EVP/Global Head, Operations at Aixial

TO GO FURTHER