Monika M. Kaczmarek

Professor at the Department of Hormonal Action Mechanisms & Head of the Molecular Biology Laboratory, Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences, Olsztyn, Poland, Member of the Council & Head of the Life Sciences Commission, National Science Centre Poland

WHO AM I

I am a group leader and head of the Molecular Biology Lab at the Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research at the Polish Academy of Sciences. My team works at the intersection of animal reproduction science, molecular biology, nutritional science, and neurobiology to reveal the molecular mechanisms of egg/embryo/neonate-maternal interactions. Currently, we seek to understand gender specific responses to early-life malnutrition, manifested in impaired reproductive functions and lifelong fertility. I am actively engaged in science communication and policy, as well as one-to-one mentoring programs for students. I have provided a broad range of services to the academic community and to governmental and professional organizations, including the Polish-American Fulbright Commission and the National Science Centre Poland.

Find out more @ Kaczmarek Lab & Molecular Biology Lab

WHAT WILL I TALK ABOUT

The issue of gender equality in science and other areas of life is important for many reasons. Therefore, the National Science Centre conducted a survey on women and men in science, which was completed by nearly 6,000 respondents. The questionnaire addressed the difficulties and challenges faced by researchers of both sexes in the context of obtaining research funding and in the process of building a research career. The results revealed the existence of various types of disparities, obstacles, and systemic challenges, as well as challenges related to the practices and attitudes of members of the research community. At the same time, we learned that an in-depth discussion on the subject is still required and that our community has to develop more effective forms of equal opportunity in academia. During my talk, I will show the results of the survey in a nutshell.

The results of a survey are available on the NSC webpage.