International day of women and girls in science 2021

Did you know dentistry is a science?

A Degree in Dentistry consists of five years of study, much of which is pure science: learning the normal functioning of the body (anatomy, physiology and biochemistry); what could go wrong (oral biology, pharmacology and radiography); and the materials science involved in making crowns and bridges etc.

Today aims to highlight the gender gap at all levels of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) disciplines. Feburary 11th is the international day of women and girls in science 2021. Even though there is active promotion and there are more women studying STEM subjects in higher education, they are still under-represented.

Introducing Dr Tina!

To celebrate International Day of Women and Girls in Science we’d like to introduce you to Tina Aster who joined us in September for a foundation year, during which she will be mentored by our principal dentist, Dave Stone.

Despite being “good” at science when she was at school, Tina preferred subjects that were more creative and hands-on such as textiles, art, and design technology. It was a school careers counsellor who suggested that her natural talent in sciences would help in a career as a dentist. Taking the counsellor’s advice, Tina studied biology and chemistry at A level and credits her chemistry teacher as being an important influence.

Females in Science

At dental school in Plymouth the gender split was pretty equal on Tina’s course.  Asked to choose an influential female scientist, Tina names Marie Curie. “What she achieved shows the scope for women in science — women can win Nobel Prizes,” she said. (Marie Curie actually won two.)

Tina is keen to encourage young school girls to consider STEM subjects. She said: “We need to get more girls interested in science,  there are many jobs available that are creative and challenging and need intelligent people. Girls bring a fresh perspective. Young girls should have the confidence to choose science subjects and pursue them.”

You can find out more about the International Day of Women and Girls in Science by clicking here or by visiting https://www.un.org/en/observances/women-and-girls-in-science-day/background

If you’ve got any questions or want to get in touch, simply email info@keynshamdentalcare.co.uk, or call 0117 986 2992.