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contact@mumsinscience.netThe Women in STEM Network grew from the foundation of Mums in Science, an initiative founded in 2005 by Dr Shara Cohen, BEM.
At that time, many women were leaving scientific careers due to inflexible work environments and the challenge of balancing professional and family responsibilities. Dr Cohen created Mums in Science to provide a space where women in STEM could connect, share experiences, and continue developing their careers. Over nearly two decades, the network expanded internationally, supporting thousands of women across more than forty countries.
During that period, the organisation built a substantial library of on-demand webinars focused on the soft skills essential to success in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, from leadership and communication to resilience, negotiation, and confidence. We also launched STEM Spotlights, featuring women at different stages of their careers, sharing how they advanced, what they learned, and how they overcame challenges along the way.
Dr Shara Cohen began her scientific career with a PhD in immunology, followed by a successful postdoctoral and senior research career. With a passion for discovery and a deep commitment to scientific integrity, she built a reputation as a respected researcher in the field.
After the birth of her first daughter, she made a major professional pivot. Rather than returning to the lab, she chose to address a growing challenge she had observed firsthand: the lack of communication and collaboration between academia, clinical practice, and industry.
She founded EuroSciCon to create dialogue between critical domains in the life sciences. In 2006, she launched Life Science Events, a pioneering subsidiary focused on themed, informal meetings and early adoption of live streaming in academic events.
Her leadership over a decade redefined academic conferencing, championing global accessibility and collaboration long before virtual formats became the norm.
In 2016, following a personal health diagnosis, Shara sold both EuroSciCon and Life Science Events to focus on ventures aligned with social impact, inclusion, and wellbeing.
In 2005, while still running EuroSciCon, Shara quietly launched Mums in Science in response to the number of women stepping away from STEM careers after becoming mothers. It began as a support network—a space for stories, professional connection, and encouragement—and grew into a thriving international community.
Mums in Science was formally incorporated. The next step (we are working on): The Women in STEM Network — a purpose-built platform focused on:
Women make up just 28% of the global STEM workforce and are twice as likely as men to leave the field. With a projected shortfall of 85 million skilled workers by 2030, the Women in STEM Network is a timely response—designed to support women and help employers build more inclusive, resilient talent pipelines.
In 2024, Dr Shara Cohen was awarded the British Empire Medal for services to women in STEM. She is a Fellow of the Royal College of Pathologists, the Institute of Biomedical Science and the Royal Society of Biology.
Her experience as a scientist, entrepreneur, mother, and cancer survivor gives her a uniquely grounded perspective on what women in STEM need to thrive.
Whether you’re a student, a returner, or in a senior position, the Women in STEM Network is being built to support your growth and visibility every step of the way.
We are currently developing the platform and inviting founding members and partners to shape its future.
As an early member, you’ll be part of a global initiative focused on:
Accredited development opportunities | including CPD-certified training and leadership webinars
Practical mentoring and peer support | with structured groups and subject-specific forums
Global career visibility | through curated job boards and employer engagement tools
A community that understands your challenges | built by and for women in STEM
Group and employer discounts are available. Join now to help build something extraordinary.
“I wasn’t a rebel or a campaigner. I was a shy, geeky student who just wanted to do science. Years later, I’ve heard people say I seemed confident and independent—but really, I lived in my own bubble.
Thanks to my mother’s quiet encouragement, I followed the path that felt right for me. Now, I want to build a space where others can do the same—on their own terms, with the support they deserve.”
