Frida sommer

My research focuses on chemokine signaling mechanisms underlying inflammation and infection control (bacterial).

Science is exciting to me because I am doing what I am passionate about. I believe that science is still a male-dominated field, despite the efforts to integrate women. I realized that very often, my female colleagues and I had to over-explain our thoughts and ideas to be taken seriously. That, and the misconception that the attributes of a good scientist are essentially masculine, are the two aspects that I struggle with the most. I admire female scientists who are empathic and supportive of other women because I believe that improving the situation of women in science is a collective task and a shared responsibility that can only be achieved if we work together.

Things are definitely improving, but I believe that the contributions by women to science are still overlooked. Women pursuing a career in science make enormous sacrifices, but very often, it doesn't pay off. Nevertheless, I believe that we are on the right track, and I am confident that things will change for good for women and girls in science.