The International Day of Women and Girls in Science serves as a reminder of the importance of encouraging and inspiring women to pursue scientific careers and creating an inclusive environment where they can thrive. Given the unique challenges of the research and education sectors, specific measures are needed to overcome barriers that hinder women from balancing their professional and personal lives. Several examples of such obstacles can be found in interviews with two young scientists of Masaryk University, Forbes 30 Under 30 awardees: Barbora Jankovičová, SCI MUNI and Lucie Ráčková, SCI MUNI graduate, now working at MED MUNI and Honeywell.
To learn more about how the European Research Area is addressing these barriers through the Gender Equality Strategy 2020-2025, you may find inspiration in the Horizon Europe (2021–2027) framework program for research and innovation.
And if you would like to celebrate this day by visiting a meaningful exhibition, now is your chance. The Women of Mathematics from Around the World exhibition has arrived at Masaryk University thanks to the prestigious HORIZON-MSCA-2022-DN-01-01 program within the CaLiForNIA project. Its goal is to train the next generation of researchers in both theoretical and applied mathematics.This exhibition, a key event of the project's opening conference, reinforces the commitment to diversity and inclusion in mathematics in multiple ways.
Mathematics as a Joyful Intellectual Pursuit
The exhibition began its global journey in Berlin on July 20, 2016. It presents the work and lives of female mathematicians worldwide and showcases their passion for science. Curator Sylvie Paycha highlights its unique combination of portraits and interviews, offering insights into both the professional and personal lives of these women. Entering the field of mathematics can be challenging, and women often face specific obstacles. The exhibition's mission is to present female mathematicians as role models who inspire confidence and encourage more women to pursue careers in mathematics. The exhibition features photographs by Noel Tovia Matoff and excerpts from interviews conducted by Sylvie Paycha and Sara Azzali with 34 female mathematicians from around the world.
A dedicated website provides a platform for communication and support among women in mathematics. Curator Sylvie Paycha reflects: “Bringing this exhibition to life was more challenging than expected, as projects focusing on women’s issues often struggle for support in the male-dominated field of mathematics. But we learned the most from overcoming the obstacles in our way.”
Women in Mathematics Through the Lens of a Photographer
Photographer Noel Tovia Matoff set out to capture the essence of each mathematician’s work and personality. She describes her journalistic approach, portraying women in their authentic work environments: “The moment they pick up the chalk and touch the blackboard, their enthusiasm is evident. They are in good spirits and truly enjoy their work. I hope this inspires young women to see that mathematics can be both challenging and fun – and that they are not alone in their struggles.”
Matoff avoids staged or posed shots, preferring to show female mathematicians as they truly are – passionate, thoughtful, and happy. She relies on natural light to achieve an organic feel, even when conditions are difficult. “Sometimes we had to photograph outside, even in freezing temperatures, to get the right lighting.” A key visual element of the exhibition is the classic school blackboard, used as a unifying background motif. The blackboard represents the process of discovery, the birth of ideas, and creative problem-solving in mathematics. It is also featured on the exhibition's opening poster and on the cover of the exhibition catalogue, which contains: Full interviews with 20 female mathematicians and a collection of additional photographs. The catalogue will be available at SCI MUNI Central Library and University Campus Library.
A Global and Lasting Initiative
Since its launch, the exhibition has traveled to more than 60 locations worldwide, reaching diverse audiences and inspiring countless people. One of its greatest strengths is its accessibility. The creators provide universities and institutions with high-resolution digital poster files for free. This allows for easy local printing and display, making the exhibition both inclusive and sustainable.
The International Day of Women and Girls in Science is not only a celebration of achievements but also a call to action. Projects like Women of Mathematics from Around the World play a crucial role in amplifying women's voices in science, breaking down barriers, and shaping a future where success is determined by talent, passion, and self-belief.
Women of Mathematics from Around the World
The exhibition is open throughout February
at Bohunice University Campus, corridor B/C.
