Article on Mission Ocean and Waters service portal

Sophie Jensen, Ieva Barda, Lisa Waldenberger, and Xenia I. Loizidou's work is featured in the MIssion Ocean and Waters Service portal.

The Importance of Diversity in Science: Highlighting Women in Mission Ocean and Waters

Diversity within scientific communities is essential for driving innovation, introducing fresh perspectives, and fostering creativity. Although the number of women entering scientific fields is steadily rising, true gender equality remains a work in progress. The European Union is dedicated to promoting inclusivity, diversity, and equality in research and innovation, aligning with its Gender Equality Strategy to ensure equal opportunities for all across Europe.

On this International Day of Women and Girls in Science, we celebrate the women making significant contributions to Mission Ocean and Waters projects, reflecting on their roles and emphasizing the need for gender balance in science.

Sophie Jensen – BioProtect

Sophie Jensen serves as a senior research scientist and project manager at Matís in Iceland, where she coordinates the BioProtect project under Mission Ocean and Waters. This initiative focuses on ecosystem-based approaches to protect and restore biodiversity in marine and coastal environments. Dr. Jensen’s expertise encompasses sustainable marine resource management, chemical analysis, and marine plastic pollution.

"Encouraging young girls to believe in themselves and their abilities may sound straightforward, but it’s often challenging in a society that places a premium on beauty and fears failure. To boost women’s participation in science, we must provide them with the space, time, and opportunities needed to thrive."

Ieva Bārda – Algae Pro BANOS

Ieva Bārda is a marine ecologist contributing to the Algae Pro BANOS project, which showcases the potential of sustainable, innovative algae-based products in the Baltic and North Seas. Her research delves into the ecology of Baltic Sea macroalgae, involving both underwater habitat studies through diving and laboratory analysis.

"I believe the diverse experiences and backgrounds of women enable them to tackle scientific challenges from unique angles, sparking exciting discoveries and driving meaningful progress."

Lisa Waldenberger – EcoDaLLi & Danube4All

Lisa Waldenberger works as a Research Assistant at the University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences in Vienna. She contributes to the EcoDaLLi and Danube4All projects, both dedicated to improving the ecological health of the Danube River basin, restoring ecosystems, and mitigating flood and drought risks. With a background in Hydro Science and Engineering, Lisa specializes in policy assessment, monitoring frameworks, and stakeholder engagement.

"Women and girls bring invaluable diversity to research, expanding the scientific talent pool and offering fresh perspectives that propel innovation and benefit society. While science remains largely male-dominated, progress is being made. Harnessing the potential of women and girls is key to building a future where everyone, regardless of gender, can fully participate in science."

Xenia I. Loizidou – SeaClear2.0

Xenia I. Loizidou, a civil and coastal engineer, is part of the SeaClear2.0 project, which aims to reduce marine litter in the Mediterranean Sea basin. With over 30 years of experience, Dr. Loizidou has served as an international expert and researcher in coastal erosion management and the development of sustainable strategies and policies.

"Just as healthy biodiversity is essential for sustainable natural systems, diversity is critical for sustainability in science. Supporting and securing women’s participation in scientific fields is not optional—it’s a fundamental requirement for the healthy future of our communities."

Image taken from MIssion Ocean and Waters service portal.