Female Leaders in Sustainable Steel Production

On the occasion of the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, MOWSES highlights the women contributing to innovation in sustainable materials and engineering. Prof. Dr. Vera Popovich, Professor at TU Delft and leader of MOWSES Work Package 3, shares her perspective on advancing green steels research while supporting the next generation of scientists. In this interview, she reflects on her career path, the importance of role models, and her commitment to creating an inclusive environment where women and girls can thrive in STEM.

Thank you for taking the time for this interview. Please tell us about yourself and your work.

I am a Professor of Materials and Mechanics in Extreme Conditions at TU Delft, where my research focuses on understanding how materials behave—and sometimes fail—when exposed to the harshest environments imaginable. This includes hydrogen technologies, green steels, aerospace applications, cryogenic systems, and additive manufacturing. My team investigates these challenges across multiple scales, from microstructure to full components, combining experiments, modelling and advanced manufacturing. I work within a diverse research group that includes many talented scientists. Although the broader field of materials science and mechanical engineering remains male dominated, I am fortunate to collaborate with excellent female colleagues at TU Delft who contribute greatly to our scientific community.

What is your role in the MOWSES project?

I coordinate Work Package 3, which focuses on thermomechanical simulation of the weld zone and identifying fracture mechanisms related to the complex microstructures of green steels. In this work, I work with a PhD researcher, Chryssa Chatzopoulou, whom I supervise as promoter. I work closely with WP2,4 and 5.

In your career, have you been surrounded by many other women in the field?

Unfortunately, in my field—at the intersection of materials science and mechanical engineering—women remain underrepresented. However, within the Department of Materials Science and Engineering at TU Delft, I was fortunate to meet exceptional female professors who served as strong role models throughout my academic career and especially during my path toward professorship.

What inspired you to pursue a career in this field?

From a very young age, I was fascinated by how things work. Every broken object felt like a puzzle waiting to be solved. That curiosity naturally grew into an interest in understanding why materials behave the way they do—particularly why they fail. Over time, this transformed into a passion for engineering materials that can endure extreme environments. What drives me today is the combination of fundamental science, advanced manufacturing, and the real-world impact of designing safer, more sustainable and reliable materials for the future.

Who was your female role model when growing up, and why?

My strongest role models were my mother and sister. They both managed to successfully combine excellent careers with family life while maintaining a healthy work–life balance. Their strength, independence, and resilience shaped my understanding of what is possible and inspired me to pursue my own path with confidence.

Have you ever faced work-related challenges related to the fact that you are a woman?

Yes. Although I have been fortunate to work in generally supportive environments, there have been moments in my career where I felt I had to prove myself more than my male counterparts, particularly in highly technical or traditionally male dominated settings. These experiences reinforced my resilience and strengthened my motivation to create a more inclusive and equitable environment for the next generation of women in STEM.

What do you think is necessary to motivate more young women to pursue careers in STEM?

Visibility and representation are crucial. Young women need to see female scientists, engineers, and leaders who demonstrate that these careers are not only possible but rewarding. Creating inclusive educational environments, offering mentorship, and actively challenging stereotypes also play an important role. Equally important is fostering confidence—helping girls feel that they belong in technical fields and that their contributions matter.

How do you see your role influencing the next generation of women and girls in STEM?

I aim to lead by example. As a professor, researcher, and group leader, I want to demonstrate that women can thrive in highly technical and demanding fields. My research team maintains a healthy balance of female and male researchers, which enriches our perspectives and strengthens collaboration. Through teaching, mentoring, and supervising students and PhD researchers, I work to create an environment where young women can develop their skills, grow in confidence, and envision themselves as future leaders in STEM. At the same time, I hope to inspire the next generation not only through my scientific work but also by showing that it is possible to combine a demanding academic career with a fulfilling family life. As both a researcher and a mother, I understand the challenges of balancing professional ambitions with personal responsibilities. By being visible, approachable, and honest about the realities of career–family balance, I aim to help young women see that a career in STEM is achievable, sustainable, and deeply rewarding—encouraging them to trust their abilities, follow their curiosity, and pursue their ambitions with confidence.