The Industrial Doctorates Plan seeks to connect the academic world with the socio-economic sector to encourage strategic, collaborative and applied research. A consolidated program that has demonstrated its effectiveness as a powerful tool at the intersection between research, the formation of highly qualified human capital and innovation in universities, research centers and the Catalan industrial fabric.
Since its inception, the program has always wanted to promote the inclusion of women in strategic research projects . Throughout its ten years of evolution, there has been a sustained growth of industrial PhD projects developed by teams made up entirely of women. In this context, we want to promote the visibility of what we call the "Female Triplets", research teams made up exclusively of women who lead industrial PhD projects. This initiative not only challenges gender stereotypes within STEM fields, but also demonstrates the positive impact of inclusion and diversity in generating innovative and effective solutions.
The Female Triplets exemplify how the integration of diverse perspectives can enrich research and accelerate the development of new technologies and methodologies. In this article, we will explore how these research teams have overcome obstacles and achieved significant successes within their respective projects. Examples that want to inspire future generations of scientists and researchers to pursue their passion in fields where they have not traditionally been represented.
Generally speaking, women's participation in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) fields has seen a gradual improvement, but is still far from parity. Initiatives such as the #100tifiques program of the Catalan Foundation for Research and Innovation (FCRI) or the call for the DonaTIC Awards of the Generalitat de Catalunya, seek to give greater visibility to the strategic role of women in science in Catalonia. According to a report (2019) by UNESCO, women represent only 35% of students enrolled in higher studies related to STEM disciplines. As for Catalonia, only 32% of students in STEM careers are women according to the DonaTIC 2022 Barometer , from the Cercle Tecnològic. These data highlight that only a small percentage of female researchers and engineers hold prominent positions within these disciplines, despite being fundamental areas for the economy of the future. Women often face specific challenges, such as a lack of references, gender stereotypes and underrepresentation in decision-making spaces. All of this underlines the need for initiatives that make the achievements of women in these fields more visible and that encourage the participation of female students and professionals in these disciplines.
Certainly, since its beginnings with the pilot plan, the Industrial Doctorates Plan has demonstrated a sustained commitment to the inclusion and empowerment of women within the fields of science and technology. This commitment is reflected in the evolution of the number of "Female Triplets" who have participated in the program over the years.
Evolution of the Women's Triplets by edition
Since 2013, when only two projects led by Female Triplets were registered, an increasing trend has been observed in their participation. The number of projects has grown steadily annually, reaching a total of 59 projects in 2023. This evolution stands out especially in the last year, where the number of projects has reached 9, the maximum in a single edition.
Distribution of the Female Triplets by academic environment
The projects have been distributed across a variety of academic institutions, with the University of Barcelona and the CERCA Centers leading with 13 and 10 projects respectively. Other institutions such as Rovira i Virgili University and the University of Vic – Central University of Catalonia have also had a notable participation with 8 and 7 projects respectively.
Distribution of the Female Triplets according to the scope of the project
In terms of disciplines, the projects led by Female Triplets have covered a wide spectrum, with a significant concentration in Health and Biomedical Sciences, which represent 34 of the 59 projects. This is followed by Chemical Sciences and Technologies with 11 projects. Participation in other areas such as Social Sciences, Arts and Humanities, as well as Engineering and Architecture, Mathematics and Physics, and ICT, although more modest, underlines the diversity of fields in which women are actively contributing.
Three real cases of female triplets
As an example of this reality, we will present below three specific projects, each of them illustrating the positive impact and significant contributions of the Feminine Triplets in different areas of knowledge and research. Regarding the interview, the three teams were asked the same four questions, one for each of the members and one last for the team as a whole.
Application of machine learning to quantum computing
The first project we present explores the application of machine learning ('Machine Learning') to quantum computing and neutrino physics projects. The project, carried out in collaboration between Qilimanjaro Quantum Tech and the Institute of High Energy Physics with the Autonomous University of Barcelona (UAB), is part of the field of particle physics and computer science.
What was your main motivation for embarking on this industrial PhD project?
Annalisa De Lorenzis (Industrial PhD student): The main motivation that prompted me to undertake this industrial PhD project was my passion for research and my desire to contribute significantly to the field of quantum machine learning and the physics of neutrinos I saw this project as an opportunity to grow professionally, acquiring interdisciplinary skills and working in an environment that promotes innovation and technological development.
How do you think your project contributes to breaking down barriers for women in your field of research?
María del Pilar Casado (thesis director): actions are much more effective than words. Therefore, the example provided in this project is very important for other women who want to work in physics or quantum engineering. Despite the environment we have in our society, women can thrive and develop a career at the level of their male colleagues.
How has female leadership influenced the direction and outcomes of this project?
Marta Pascual (Business Manager): Although the gender of research leadership may not inherently affect the quality of the project or its results, the presence of female professors and leaders can significantly inspire young women to pursue careers in these fields. Their visibility helps break down stereotypes and barriers, making it clear that these professions are open and welcoming to everyone, regardless of gender.
As an all-female team, what message would you like to send to other young women who aspire to research and innovation?
Project Team: We encourage women with a passion for physics and quantum computing to persist in their careers. Never let fear or uncertainty get in the way of your progress. Your courage and perseverance are key to breaking boundaries and making extraordinary contributions in these fields. Keep going!
Improve the quality of life of patients with inflammatory bowel disease
The second project is a collaboration between the company GoodGut , the University of Barcelona and the University of Girona, seeks the development and validation of a kit to monitor the activity of specific inflammatory bowel disease. The result of the project will allow GoodGut to have a more effective in vitro diagnostic technology than those that currently exist, allowing an improvement in the quality of life of patients.
What was your main motivation for embarking on this industrial PhD project?
Sandra Taboada López (industrial PhD student): when I understood the deep involvement of science in human diseases, I decided to dedicate my life to helping to overcome them. Since then, my motivation to work in science has always been driven by the importance of effort, passion and commitment to society to make a significant impact in the fight against disease. This awareness has driven me to seek the most effective way to make a difference, which is why I decided to embark on an industrial PhD.
How do you think your project contributes to breaking down barriers for women in your field of research?
Laura Baldo (thesis director): The leadership of a research project represents a concrete example of the capacity, creativity and effort of women in the scientific field. As a mother, teacher and researcher (and much more) I hope to represent an example for all women to pursue the same professional passion while respecting private/family life.
How has female leadership influenced the direction and outcomes of this project?
Marta Malagón (company manager): the belief that there are differences between female and male leadership in companies is well rooted. You have a completely different image of a male leader and a female leader. However, what is important to me is to lead projects where a goal has been built with the participation of a multidisciplinary team and motivated by the achievement of the same, regardless of their gender.
As an all-female team, what message would you like to send to other young women who aspire to research and innovation?
Project team: As a team made up entirely of women in the field of research and innovation, we want to convey a message of inspiration and support. Don't be afraid to chase your dreams and tread unconventional paths. Always remember your courage and determination in the face of any challenge you face. Women play a crucial role in research and innovation, and our talent and perspective are essential to addressing today's challenges and building a better future for all.
Production of green hydrogen from renewable and sustainable energy sources
The third project led by a female triplet works on the production of green hydrogen from renewable and sustainable energy sources, reducing dependence on fossil fuels and greenhouse gas emissions. The project is the result of the collaboration between the Vallès Oriental Waste Management Consortium and the University of Barcelona (UB).
What was your main motivation for embarking on this industrial PhD project?
Judit Lloreda Rodes (industrial PhD student): this industrial PhD project represents a unique opportunity to jointly apply the two branches of knowledge in which I have been trained, within an interdisciplinary project with great future prospects. I am also motivated by the possibility of dealing with and learning about a very topical issue such as green hydrogen, and its importance in the energy transition towards a more sustainable model.
Being part of a strategic research project, where the research is intertwined with the current needs of a company like the Consortium, to propose an innovative solution that fits into its mission towards a sustainable energy model, means a great opportunity to transfer research and bring it closer to society.
How do you think your project contributes to breaking down barriers for women in your field of research?
Elvira Gómez Valentín (thesis director): it is important to point out that neither the research nor the final applications of the doctoral thesis project have any gender implication, since the possible results would equally benefit all of society, both men and women women Therefore, the evaluation of the gender dimension in the framework of this research does not reveal any gender-related concerns associated with the achievement of the objectives.
On the other hand, it would be desirable that the coincidence of three women as actors in this doctoral thesis project, especially in an industrial doctoral environment, would be considered as a sign of the normality of the significant role that women play in research and its execution. This situation, although it happened by chance, highlights the progressive incorporation of women in research and management tasks, and can be a call to attract the attention of fields outside of research, making visible the presence feminine and raising the consideration of women in research.
How has female leadership influenced the direction and outcomes of this project?
Vanessa Abad Cuñado (company manager): equality is a pending subject in many areas. Therefore, being able to see industrial doctorates in which there is a "female triplet" should not be treated as a different circumstance. On the contrary, we must consider it as part of the fact that society is maturing and that there are more and more researchers, managers and directors in the scientific and business fields.
The female leadership in this direction of the project influences this aspect that I have commented on. The fact that scientific and business managers are women influences this plurality, a sign of a society that is evolving towards equality. This integrative vision in all areas makes it possible to carry out a project where the scientific rigor is maximum. The thesis director, an excellent scientist and director, from my point of view, has made it possible to bring these results closer to the industrial world, in real plants.
As an all-female team, what message would you like to send to other young women who aspire to research and innovation?
Project team: We would tell you that dedicating yourself to research and innovation, even though it is not always easy, is a great opportunity to continue training in the world of research and build a profile of high professional value, in a world where there is more and more female presence at the head of major projects.
Conclusions
Finally, with this report we have explored these three examples of "Female Triplets" within the Industrial Doctorate Plan, highlighting not only their scientific and technological excellence, but also their ability to challenge the current situation of women in the fields STEM We have seen how all-female teams have led innovative projects in quantum computing, biomedicine, and environmental sustainability, offering new solutions to complex problems and contributing significantly to scientific progress. The "Female Triplets" serve as an example and inspiration, demonstrating that gender barriers can and must be overcome. For this reason, it is essential that we continue to promote diversity and inclusion within research projects within the framework of the Industrial Doctorates Plan.
In conclusion, while we celebrate the achievements of the "Female Triplets", we must also reflect on how we can build on these foundations to ensure that the next generation of scientists, technologists, engineers and mathematicians can work in a world where their abilities and perspectives are equally valued and where their participation is the norm, not the exception.
