Women in Science Awards

December 10, 2024

Why women scientists could be
The answer to a happier, healthier world

The life and work of two inspiring scientists is showing that
When research makes wellbeing a priority, wellbeing can flourish for all.

As women scientists break new ground, they’re not only advancing their fields but also forging a path that puts mental health and happiness in the spotlight, with the potential for wide-reaching benefits. Five women scientists in Australia and New Zealand have just been awarded L’Oréal-Unesco fellowships, providing them with funding for their ongoing research along with collaboration and mentoring opportunities. The research being carried out by Dr Brittany Mitchell and Dr Mengyu Li, two of this year’s fellows, has the potential to transform society’s approach to health, happiness and sustainability.

Rethinking the treatment of mental health

Dr Brittany Mitchell is pioneering research into the genetics of depression in the hope of revolutionising how we approach treatment and care. Her work at the QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute in Queensland is not only innovative but deeply personal – she draws from her own mental health challenges to guide her research. Depression remains a difficult condition to treat effectively and current approaches are failing to meet the needs of patients – only one in three respond to treatment, Mitchell says. “Even though we’ve made big strides in treating depression, more people getting treatment hasn’t led to a drop in the overall impact of depression,” she says.

A new era for wellbeing in science and society

Grants such as the L’Oréal-Unesco fellowship play a pivotal role in providing women in science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) with the resources and support necessary to balance their research with other aspects of life, such as family responsibilities. To women and girls contemplating a career in science, Mitchell says: “Go for it! A career in science is such an exciting path where you can make real change … Embrace your curiosity, follow what excites you, and know that there’s a place for you here.”Dr Mengyu Li, from the University of Sydney, is another pioneering researcher. Through her fellowship, Li will advance her research into the link between wellbeing and climate change, investigating whether a shift in our priorities – towards happiness, quality of life and community over material consumption – could help ease the ecological strain on our planet.