On the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, we spoke with some of the women working in OceanICU to learn what inspired them to pursue careers in ocean science.
Stephanie Henson is a Principal Scientist at the National Oceanography Centre and an Honorary Professor at the University of Southampton. Her research focuses on understanding natural variability and the effects of climate change on phytoplankton populations, and the resulting impacts on the biological carbon pump. When asked what first drew her to science, Stephanie explained:
“From a very early age, I was always fascinated by the natural world and in particular, space (probably inspired by my grandfather who worked for NASA). Science was also my favourite subject in school, although at my all-girls high school the science teachers were not exactly encouraging about women choosing careers in science… probably that made me only more determined to pursue it”!
Natalya Gallo is a Marine Ecologist and Biological Oceanographer at the Norwegian Research Centre. Passionate about the science–policy interface, she has participated in eight climate and ocean focused United Nations Conferences. Natalya shared her early motivation for entering the field:
“I knew I wanted to study aquatic ecosystems from as early as I can remember. I was very curious and interested in understanding how things in nature fit together. There was so much unknown about marine environments — unusual animals, unusual conditions — and the unknowns captivated me. Later I became increasingly interested in understanding how human-use fits in and shapes marine ecosystems and how scientific knowledge can contribute to protecting these fantastic ecosystems. Jacques Cousteau’s books were also a huge source of inspiration”.
Carla Freitas is a Senior Scientist at the Institute of Marine Research where she specialises in the spatial ecology of marine top predators. Her work focuses on how these species use their environment, their ecological role in marine ecosystems, and their impact on the ocean carbon cycle. Reflecting on when she knew science was her path, Carla :
“I knew I wanted to become a marine biologist since I was 12-13 years old, inspired by the nature documentaries I loved to watch on TV”.
Finally, Nathalie Van Isacker, Project Officer at Seascape Belgium, brings a background in bio-engineering and a strong passion for science outreach. For Nathalie, inspiration comes from engaging directly with people:
“It is amazing to work on science outreach and ocean literacy! I learn new things every day and truly enjoy speaking with people of all ages to better understand, together, the environment we live in”.
OceanICU celebrates women and girls in science and the contributions they make every day. Recognition, visibility, and opportunity matter, not just on the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, but always.
