The International Day of Women and Girls in Science highlights the importance of equal access to education, research and scientific careers, and recognises the vital role of women in shaping modern society.
On 11 February, we commemorate the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, established by the United Nations to promote the full and equal participation of women in research and technical fields. Science and research are essential for addressing today’s technological and societal challenges, and diversity within research teams represents an important foundation for further development and innovation.
As of 11 February 2026, Institute of Physics of Materials, The Czech Academy of Sciences employs a total of 178 staff members. Of these, 132 work within scientific departments (research staff, technical staff and students), while 46 are non-scientific employees (technical and administrative staff, the project team, and other support personnel).
There are 76 research scientists at the Institute, including 16 women, representing approximately one fifth of this group. In total, 31 women are active within the scientific departments.
A notable generational shift is visible among early-career researchers. Women now represent slightly over 41% of PhD students – 7 out of 17 doctoral candidates. Growing interest in technical disciplines, particularly materials engineering, physics and engineering mechanics, is also evident among undergraduate and Master’s students collaborating with the Institute on Bachelor’s and diploma theses. Of the 21 students in this category, 5 are women.
Non-scientific staff form an integral part of the Institute’s operations, with women representing nearly 48% of this group. Without their daily work in administration, project management, technical support and operational services, scientific research and project implementation would not be possible.
The International Day of Women and Girls in Science provides an opportunity to acknowledge the contribution of all our female colleagues across professions, whose work supports both the advancement of research and the stable functioning of the Institute of Physics of Materials.
