Breaking Barriers: The Power of Believing in Yourself and Achieving Equality in STEM

At Mars, we believe in the power of diversity and equal representation in the scientific community. The contributions of experts in transformative science and food safety have been invaluable, and the importance of inclusion and diversity in the field cannot be overstated. Diverse perspectives and experiences bring new ideas and solutions to the table, leading to progress and advancements in the industry.

That's why we want to take a moment to highlight the incredible contributions of women to food safety risk management. Women have been instrumental in advancing our understanding of foodborne illnesses, mycotoxins, and food integrity challenges and their impacts on public health. From ground-breaking research to pioneering solutions, women have made a significant impact in this field.

However, as demonstrated by the recent Mars Here to be Heard Survey, despite their contributions, women in science continue to face challenges, including gender-based discrimination and a lack of representation in leadership positions. This not only limits the potential of individual scientists but also restricts the growth and development of the field as a whole.

At the Mars Global Food Safety Center, we are committed to creating a supportive and inclusive environment for all scientists, regardless of gender. We recognize and celebrate the achievements of women in food safety research, and we look forward to continued progress towards equality and diversity in the scientific community.

Hear from Senior Research Manager - Food Integrity - Dr Silin Tang, as she discusses her experiences as a woman in science:

What inspired you to pursue a career in science?

My father, who was trained as an immunologist and works in the field of science and technology, was my role model and inspired me to pursue a career in science. His passion for medicine, immunology, and microbiology piqued my interest, and I soon developed a love for these subjects as well. Through his work, I had the opportunity to meet many renowned scientists and witness their contributions to improve the world.

How have you seen the field change for women in recent years?<

I am honored to be a part of an organization that places high importance on equality, quality, responsibility, and mutuality. The Mars GFSC is a prime example of empowering women in science with two thirds of our research team being female. All perspectives are valued and heard, regardless of gender, to avoid biases and potential errors from limited knowledge or information.

The diversity within our research team extends beyond gender and includes scientists with varied educational and cultural backgrounds, as well as diverse scientific disciplines such as veterinary medicine, molecular biology, food microbiology, and genetics. This mix of skills creates a strong, harmonious and highly efficient team.

What advice would you give to young women interested in pursuing a career in science?

My advice to achieving your dreams is to believe in yourself and your ability to shape your own life. Trust that you don't need to be great at everything, as long as you never stop learning and growing. 

Join us in celebrating the incredible women in science who are making a difference every day.