The 5th edition of the book Women in Science, published by Ciência Viva on International Women’s Day, highlights 107 researchers from various generations and fields, recognizing their contribution to the advancement of knowledge.
The book celebrates the role of women in science in Portugal, presenting portraits and inspiring career paths that promote gender equality and the recognition of scientific research.
As in previous editions, CESAM is once again represented, reaffirming the excellence of its research. In recent years, this book has highlighted several CESAM researchers, including Sara Peixoto, Susana Loureiro, Mónica Amorim, Diana Madeira, Sónia Cruz, and Ana Hilário (CESAM/DBio), Helena Vieira, Célia Alves, and Ana Miranda (CESAM/DAO), as well as Teresa Rocha-Santos and Vânia Calisto (CESAM/DQ).
This year, we decided to go beyond the celebration and conduct a interview with one of the CESAM researchers featured in the book. We aimed to learn more about her motivations, challenges, and contributions to science, giving voice to her story and inspiring future generations.
For Célia Alves, one of the honoured researchers, this recognition represents a great honour and motivation to continue her scientific journey. However, she highlights the challenges that women still face in science, particularly in balancing motherhood with an academic career, due to high demands and a lack of support structures.
Regarding the launch of the 5th volume, she emphasizes the importance of the event in giving visibility to the work of female scientists, encouraging young researchers, and reinforcing the public appreciation of science and research in Portugal. Furthermore, she considers it essential to use these initiatives to raise awareness of the underfunding of research and higher education key issues for the country’s progress.