MINT Marathon in Kiel: Women conquer the scientific stage!

MINT Marathon in Kiel: Women conquer the scientific stage!

On March 7, 2025, the fourth women's lecture marathon took place at the Christian Albrechts University of Kiel (CAU). This event aims to make women more visible in technical and scientific disciplines. Women from all eight CAU faculties took part in the event, as well as representatives from the Schleswig-Holstein University Hospital and Marit Hansen, the state commissioner for data protection.

The lectures, which lasted between 15 and 45 minutes, offered insights into the diverse challenges and experiences that women have in MINT subjects (mathematics, computer science, natural sciences and technology). Janna Martens, a doctoral student at the German Aerospace Center (DLR), addressed the topic of space weather and its effects on Earth in her lecture. She also spoke about her specific experiences as a woman studying physics and the associated hurdles.

Challenges and opportunities

Another speaker, Aya Mahdy, who researches immunogenetics and bioinformatics, discussed the difficulties of balancing academic goals with private commitments. Mahdy, who studies immune-mediated inflammatory diseases, viewed the challenges encountered as opportunities for personal growth. In their presentations, both women emphasized the importance of role models and networks among women in science.

The importance of such initiatives is also assessed by current studies. A study by the Institute for Labor Market and Occupational Research shows that only 56% of women with a MINT degree also work in a corresponding MINT profession, while this figure is 70% for men. The reasons for this discrepancy are varied: a lack of role models and unclear career expectations are just two of the most common factors.

Initiatives to promote women in MINT careers

In order to counteract the shortage of skilled workers, especially in the IT sector, initiatives from business and politics are implementing measures to recruit women into technical professions. Programs like “Come, do MINT” inform girls and young women about possible MINT courses and careers. This initiative aims to increase the visibility of MINT careers and provide a platform for relevant funding opportunities.

The state initiative “Women in MINT Professions,” which was launched by the state government in 2010, pursues similar goals. The collaboration of over 50 partner organizations, including ministries and universities, aims to increase the attractiveness of these professions and reduce the number of women leaving the profession. To this end, numerous support offers are being implemented along the education chain, ranging from early childhood MINT education to promoting female careers in companies.

Campaigns such as “MINT in your life” on social media draw attention to the diversity and opportunities in MINT careers, so that young women are shown access to the diverse possibilities.