The Women in
STEM
Network
Professional connection across disciplines, regions and career stages
Our Story
The Women in STEM Network began with an observation about women who were leaving scientific careers and finding it difficult to remain connected to their professional networks.
Dr Shara Cohen BEM, Founder
Awarded the British Empire Medal in 2024 for services to women in STEM and for supporting the International Cancer community.
The Beginning
While running scientific conferences, I began to notice a recurring pattern. Talented women were stepping away from scientific careers for many different reasons. Some were balancing work with family life. Others were dealing with changing priorities, workplace expectations, limited recognition or poor leadership.
There was rarely one simple explanation. As women stepped away, some also became disconnected from the colleagues, collaborators and professional communities that had supported their careers. Returning could be difficult, but remaining in STEM could be difficult too.
I wanted to do something to change this.
In 2005, I founded Mums in Science as a small network for women who wanted to maintain their scientific careers after having children. It provided practical information, peer connection and encouragement at a stage when these were hard to find.
As conversations grew, it became clear that the need extended far beyond mothers. Women at all career stages and across every STEM discipline, around the world, were seeking connection, support and opportunities.
The Women in STEM Network was created to bring these communities together across science, technology, engineering, mathematics and medicine.
Science
Technology
Engineering
Mathematics
Medicine
Key Moments
2005
Mums in Science was founded.
2022
Mums in Science Ltd was incorporated.
2024
Dr Shara Cohen received the British Empire Medal.
2026
The organisation developed into The Women in STEM Network.
The Network Today
Connecting women across regions to share experiences and build relationships.
Local groups that bring people together for collaboration and support.
Access to mentors and resources to help women grow their careers.
Events and learning opportunities that inform, inspire and connect.
Networks change lives. They create belonging, open doors and remind us that we do not have to navigate our careers alone. That belief is what brought The Women in STEM Network to life, and what continues to guide us today.