VISE sponsors new group for women in science, medicine, and engineering
Twenty women recently celebrated the creation of the Vanderbilt Institute for Surgery and Engineering’s new group designed to support women in the STEM fields.
The group adds a new way for women to build community among the ten VISE-affiliated labs as well as host discussion about translational research, networking, mental health, and navigating work environments. Group members also will explore informal mentorships with lab members and successful women in STEM industries.
“Women studying surgery and engineering are a minority, and there are even fewer women who choose it as a professional career,” said Saramati Narasimhan, PhD student in biomedical engineering.
“Having been a part of VISE for several years as a graduate student, being a part of the planning team for Women in VISE seemed like a great opportunity to improve our local community,” she said. “My hope is that as a group we can support each other and address the unique challenges that face us as women both as students and ultimately as professionals in the field.”
Laura Masson, PhD student in biomedical engineering, agreed and said she welcomed the chance to build leadership skills.
“Women in translational research face a unique set of challenges as we navigate a male-dominated field,” she said. “Serving on the planning team for Women in VISE gives me the opportunity to improve my leadership skills while promoting personal and professional development as well as a sense of community among women.”
In September, following a VISE Seminar, the group will meet with Lola Chambless, MD, assistant professor of neurological surgery, to hear her talk about career development, work-life balance, and mentors.
Events will include round table discussions, talks from industry representatives as well as Vanderbilt graduates and faculty members, movie screenings, career workshops, social events, keynote speakers and outreach efforts.