Despite recent progress a significant gender gap remains in science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM). According to UNESCO’s latest Science Report, women make up just one in three of the world’s researchers and only 35 per cent of STEM graduates. Our Women in STEM Scholarships help to increase female representation in these fields, offering women like Lisandra Matos the life-changing opportunity to pursue their postgraduate study at a world-class UK university.
The catalyst
After completing her undergraduate degree in ocean sciences at a local university in Brazil, Lisandra was keen to continue her education in the UK. But the English language requirements for UK study and high cost of education seemed out of reach. Then a friend suggested she apply for our Women in STEM Scholarships, which offers not just living and study expenses but also English language support.
The spark
Lisandra was awarded a scholarship to complete an MSc in Marine Environmental Protection at Bangor University in Wales. The course was exactly what she’d been looking for, combining lectures and seminars with practical work in the lab, on shore and at sea. A highlight was joining a field trip onboard the university’s research vessel, Prince Madog. It was her first chance to explore the types of marine environments she had only before read about in books.
The support of Lisandra’s professors and supervisors made a big difference to her time in the UK. With their encouragement, she presented her master’s project in partnership with the Welsh government, exploring the impacts of climate change on the UK fishing fleet.
The success
After graduating, Lisandra took up a role in Scotland, supporting offshore developers and local fishing communities to find sustainable ways of working together. In the future, she hopes to apply what she’s learned to support Brazil’s own marine economy, and build a bridge between the renewable energy sectors in Latin America and the UK.
She’d also like to be a role model to other young people in her community, especially those hoping to pursue careers in STEM. Already, a city councillor in Maranhão has asked her to return home to share her story with local students.
‘Few scholarships are as inclusive as the British Council’s Women in STEM Scholarship. The opportunity changed my professional life.’ – Lisandra Matos
Lisandra is one of more than 300 women to have been supported by our Women in STEM Scholarships. Recipients have gained degrees in everything from biotechnology to software development and aviation, and gone on to secure their dream jobs, launch their own NGOs and become role models for other women and girls in STEM.
Now in their third year, the scholarships work in partnership with 19 UK universities, supporting women across the Americas, Asia, Egypt, Turkey and the Western Balkans. They are just one example of how we use our experience and expertise to widen access to higher education and science and research opportunities, and promote gender equality in education systems.
We are the partner of choice for education institutions, governments, NGOs and community-based organisations around the world. Find out how you can spark success with the British Council.