48TWENTYFOURSEVENBIOPHARMA Issue 1 / March 2026 WOMEN IN SCIENCE them see that there is not just one way to lead and that they can build their path without feeling compelled to fit a template that wasn’t designed for them. Supporting emerging female leaders means contributing to a more balanced, inclusive and powerful leadership landscape to create more efficient and innovative environments. Do you think the Covid-19 pandemic has affected women disproportionally in terms of the unexpected rises in parental childcare and virtual schooling, which fell most heavily on mothers? Is that a general observation seen with women balancing a demanding career with family responsibilities? I believe the Covid-19 pandemic disproportionately affected women, as the sudden rise in childcare and virtual schooling fell more heavily on mothers. Many had to absorb a much larger share of family responsibilities while still managing demanding jobs. Even highly committed and capable women experienced additional stress as they tried to meet both personal and professional expectations. The issue was never their ambition or skills, but a structural and cultural context in which care-giving responsibilities still fall unevenly on women. This situation amplified a long‑standing reality: women often carry a dual burden, balancing full‑time work with household duties. The pandemic didn’t create this imbalance, but it probably made it more visible and more intense. Even more significantly, there was an increased risk of career interruptions. Many women were pushed to step back or temporarily reduce their professional engagement, drastically lowering their chances for professional growth. This period also highlighted the importance of workplace cultures and leaders that genuinely support work-life balance. Flexible policies, empathetic leadership and an understanding of the pressures employees face are essential not only in times of crisis, but to build a more equitable and sustainable environment for the future. In a final question to conclude the interview, she was asked to give her opinion on what can be done to increase female participation in the pharmaceutical/biotech field? In my opinion, one of the most effective ways to increase female participation in this field is to highlight positive examples. Women need to see that it is truly possible to build a fulfilling and successful professional life in these sectors. It is important to show that those examples are not exceptions but part of a growing reality. Real stories of women who have achieved meaningful roles show that professional fulfilment is truly possible and can co-exist harmoniously with other aspects of life. It creates inspiration, motivation and a stronger sense of belonging for young women considering a career in science. Equally important is rewarding skills and competencies. When organisations genuinely value people for their abilities, they don’t just attract more women, they attract the best talent overall. A culture that recognises and promotes excellence, regardless of gender, naturally becomes more diverse, inclusive and innovative. Together, these elements could make the pharmaceutical and biotech world more appealing, more equitable and stronger for everyone. OUR IDEAS ARE EXTRA-ORDINARY. JUST LIKE US!
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