Eppendorf SE presented a donation of 20,000 euros to the European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL) as part of an online award ceremony. The sum will be used for the EMBL project “Advancement of Women in Science”, which enables female scientists to embark on a leadership career in the scientific profession.
In her acceptance speech, Edith Heard, Director General, spoke of an important signal for the qualification of female researchers. In the scientific environment in particular, she said, there is a clearly identifiable gender imbalance in leadership positions:
“To address this, the Lab launched the ‘Leadership and Excellence for Aspiring Women Postdocs’ (LEAP) program in 2020, which includes a year-long mentoring and coaching program. Thanks to the generous donation from Eppendorf, this will enable us to provide 20 more female postdocs with the qualifications for a leadership career. We hope that in the future they will lead the way in science as group leaders, senior researchers or assistant professors.”
More visibility for women in science
“Solidarity, tolerance and diversity are important cornerstones of the company’s cosmopolitan culture and the basis for our company’s success. In science in particular, the imbalance between men and women is a serious issue, especially in leadership positions. Making women more visible in science is a declared goal and concern of Eppendorf.”
- Eva van Pelt, Co-Chairman of the Management Board
