According to Wendy Hall there are three things young women need for a career in science. It requires hard work and determination, but above all, 'confidence in one's own abilities'. She should know. Since 1994 Wendy has been Professor of Computer Science at the University of Southampton. And as head of the eighty-strong team of the Intelligence, Agents, Multimedia Research Group at the University, she led the development of the open hypermedia system, Microcosm. Her science career also opened a door to the business world. She is a director of the company that commercially exploits the Microcosm technology.

Wendy believes the traditionally male-dominated scientific world has meant that women often question their own ability to succeed. Academic ability needs to be nurtured carefully. Women shouldn't underestimate the importance of good support structures. 'Having really good mentors who can help boost your confidence when it is flagging is essential. Equally there's networking. There aren't always women around to act as mentors, but sympathetic men can be just as effective. Find your mentors through networking – this is how men establish themselves in the hierarchy so we have to learn how to network as well. Women's networks help to boost confidence.'

Wendy's CBE is just one of many awards recognising her contribution to science. She is one of the few women to be elected Fellow of the Royal Academy of Engineering. Breaking through may be difficult. But when you do, possibilities open up. 'There is a lot of pressure to appoint women to senior positions, so once you have broken through the glass ceiling the opportunities are endless.'