Breaking Barriers: Young Women Advancing Sustainable Steel Production
Celebrated annually on February 11, the International Day of Women and Girls in Science highlights the critical role women and girls play in scientific and technological advancements. This year marks the 10th anniversary, but despite progress, gender gaps persist in STEM fields. This day serves as a global call to promote equal opportunities, recognise female scientists’ contributions, and inspire the next generation of women in research. To promote the important message of the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, MOWSES spotlights talented female researchers shaping the future of sustainable steel production.
Today, we have the opportunity to speak with Katharina John, a passionate PhD candidate working within our MOWSES consortium. Based at Dillinger Hüttenwerke, one of Europe’s leading steel manufacturers, she is exploring innovative ways to reduce the environmental impact of steelmaking. In our interview, she shares her journey into science, the challenges and opportunities for women in the industry, and how her research contributes to advancing the field of steelmaking. Read on to discover her inspiring story!
Thank you for taking the time for this interview. Tell us a bit about yourself and your work. Do you work together with many other women?
My name is Katharina, and I am a 26-year-old PhD candidate working at Dillinger, which is a steel producer in Dillingen Germany. I work in the research and development department, which I enjoy immensely because it allows me to be creative in my research. Although my team comprises both men and women, it is true that the overall field tends to be male dominated. Despite this, I am fortunate to work with several talented female colleagues whose insights greatly enhance our projects. I believe that diversity in thought and experience is essential for innovation.
What is your role in the MOWSES project?
In the MOWSES project, I collaborate closely with my colleague, Dr. Sebastian Scholl, to select and prepare the materials that will be examined in our experiments. We determine the appropriate experimental parameters and ensure that our research design meets rigorous scientific standards. Working on MOWSES provides me with the opportunity to contribute to our field, which is a big goal of mine.
During your studies, did you meet many other women in the field? As teachers or fellow students?
During my studies, I observed that the number of women in STEM was relatively low. While I had some female classmates with whom I shared academic interests, female representation was noticeably scarce, especially among the teaching staff. There were only two female professors in my field at my university. Although this environment highlighted the underrepresentation of women in the field, my interactions with the few women present provided me with valuable insights and support. These experiences have made me more aware of the challenges that still exist in achieving gender balance in STEM and have motivated me to work toward a more inclusive academic community.
What inspired you to pursue a career in this field?
From an early age, I was fascinated by the natural sciences. This interest was sparked by educational science programs, experiment kits, and visits to technical museums, which made complex concepts engaging and accessible. Over time, this curiosity developed into a deeper passion for research and problem-solving. I enjoyed the challenge of understanding how things work and applying scientific principles to real-world questions. Choosing a career in this field felt like a natural decision, as it allows me to combine analytical thinking with creativity. Now, as a PhD candidate at Dillinger, I appreciate the opportunity to work on meaningful research and contribute to scientific advancements.
Who was your female role model when growing up and why?
My foremost female role model has always been Marie Curie. Her pioneering work and groundbreaking discoveries in radioactivity have not only revolutionized science but have also served as a beacon of determination and resilience. Marie Curie’s relentless pursuit of knowledge, despite facing significant societal obstacles, has deeply inspired me to follow in her footsteps. She demonstrated that passion and perseverance are crucial in overcoming the barriers placed before women in science. Her legacy continues to motivate me as I navigate my own career in a predominantly male field. By emulating her dedication, I strive to contribute to science in meaningful ways and help foster an environment where future generations of women in STEM can thrive.
Have you ever faced (work-related) challenges related to the fact that you are a woman?
Working in a predominantly male field has presented its share of challenges. There have been instances in the past when my capabilities and contributions were underestimated, sometimes solely due to my gender. These experiences have required me to consistently demonstrate my competence through the quality and precision of my work. While such challenges can be disheartening, they have also strengthened my resolve to excel and advocate for greater gender equality in the workplace. I have learned to navigate these situations by maintaining professionalism and focusing on delivering high-quality research.
And have you ever experienced some advantages in your line of work as a woman?
In my field, I have noticed that being a woman comes with both challenges and certain advantages. One positive aspect is that I am sometimes treated with more friendliness or consideration compared to my male colleagues. This can create a more supportive atmosphere in professional interactions. At the same time, I believe that diversity in teams, including different perspectives and approaches, benefits scientific work as a whole. While these experiences have not significantly influenced my daily tasks, they have made me more aware of the different dynamics that exist in a male-dominated field.
What do you think is necessary to motivate more young women to pursue careers in STEM?
I believe that early exposure to STEM topics is crucial in encouraging more young women to pursue careers in these fields. Children develop interests at a young age, and engaging them early through hands-on experiments, science kits, educational programs, and visits to technical museums can spark curiosity and excitement about science and technology. Making these subjects more accessible and interactive in schools can also help break down any preconceived notions about STEM being overly difficult or only suited for certain groups. The more positive experiences children have with STEM early on, the more likely they are to see it as a viable and interesting career path later in life.
How do you see your role influencing the next generation of women and girls in STEM?
By working in STEM, women contribute to increasing visibility and normalizing female participation in the field. When young girls see more women in research and technical roles, it can help them envision similar paths for themselves. While individual influence may be small, each person contributing to a diverse and inclusive work environment helps shape the perception of STEM careers for future generations. Over time, this can encourage more young women to pursue careers in these fields and foster a more balanced and innovative scientific community.