For Dr Anyanee Kamkaew, science has always been about discovery. She still remembers the moment as a schoolgirl when she first witnessed a chemical reaction. ‘Seeing an entire world invisible to the naked eye fascinated me and made me realize how much there is to explore,’ she says.
That early spark led her to a career in research, and as an associate professor at Suranaree University of Technology’s School of Chemistry, her work on photosensitive organic molecules and nano-delivery systems aims to save lives by expanding cancer treatment options for patients in Thailand. She is one of three distinguished recipients of research grants from the 2024 L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science, Thailand National Programme.
Their recognition comes at a critical time for women in STEM. Despite progress, women remain underrepresented in scientific fields, particularly in leadership roles. Globally, they make up just one-third of the scientific workforce, and only 35 per cent of STEM students are female. To mark the International Day of Women and Girls in Science on 11 February, UNESCO surveyed over 700 women scientists worldwide, asking them: What would change in your field if more women were involved in science? Their responses highlighted five key benefits: enhanced creativity and innovation, more inclusive research, higher ethical standards, improved working conditions, and more role models for future generations.
‘The experiences of this year’s L’Oréal-UNESCO awardees reflect the broader realities captured in UNESCO’s global survey,’ says Marina Patrier, Deputy Director and Chief of the Education Section at UNESCO Bangkok. ‘These inspiring scientists show what’s possible when women push past barriers to thrive in STEM. But far too many never get that chance, and when they are excluded, we lose out on diverse perspectives, inclusive research, and critical innovations that could drive progress for all.’
Thailand outperforms many countries in gender representation in STEM. According to the latest data from the UNESCO Institute for Statistics, 45.9 per cent of researchers in Thailand are women—significantly higher than the global average. Yet, for Dr Pongkarn Chakthranont, a researcher at the National Nanotechnology Center and fellow 2024 L’Oréal-UNESCO research grant awardee, exposure to different academic environments revealed a stark contrast.
Growing up in Bangkok, the diverse representation of Dr Pongkarn’s teachers across all subjects, including science, made her feel that gender was no barrier to her career choice. ‘However, during my undergraduate and graduate studies [abroad], I saw a significant gender imbalance in STEM fields, with far fewer female scientists in academia.’
This lack of visibility matters. Studies show that when girls lack role models in science, they are less likely to see it as a viable career path. The urgency is even greater given that 122 million girls worldwide remain out of school, limiting their access to STEM studies and career opportunities. The gender gap isn’t just a women’s issue—it’s an economic challenge. The World Economic Forum estimates that doubling the number of women in the technology workforce by 2027 could add €600 billion to the global economy.
Addressing these disparities requires structural change. highlights key strategies, including investing in extracurricular STEM programmes for girls, strengthening partnerships with female-led businesses in science, and increasing the media visibility of women scientists.
Dr Waleeporn Donphai, an associate professor in chemical engineering at Kasetsart University and a 2024 L’Oréal-UNESCO grant recipient, emphasizes that change must start early in education. She advocates for science clubs and camps for girls, mentorship programmes linking students with women scientists, and encouraging parents to introduce STEM learning through educational toys and resources.
Beyond structural barriers, Dr Anyanee stresses that resilience is key to translating cherished girlhood joys of scientific exploration into rewarding STEM careers. She advises aspiring female scientists to build a supportive network, seek out mentors and role models, and ‘keep pushing forward because the world needs your ideas and discoveries’.
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Read their full stories
‘My passion for science was ignited by curiosity and a desire to solve real-world problems. A defining moment for me was when I first witnessed a chemical reaction in chemistry class. Seeing an entire world invisible to the naked eye fascinated me and made me realize how much there is to explore. Encouraging girls in STEM starts with providing early exposure to hands-on learning experiences. Families can nurture curiosity and reinforce the idea that science and math are for everyone. Institutions and educators should create inclusive and supportive environments where girls feel comfortable asking questions and expressing their ideas.
‘To young girls interested in STEM: Believe in yourself and don't be afraid to explore new ideas. Science is about curiosity, persistence, and creativity. If something fascinates you, pursue it fearlessly. To young women facing challenges in STEM careers: Resilience is key. There may be obstacles—bias, self-doubt, or lack of representation—but don't let them deter you. Seek mentorship, build a strong support network and remember that you belong in STEM just as much as anyone else. Keep pushing forward because the world needs your ideas and discoveries.’
Assoc Prof Dr Anyanee Kamkaew
School of Chemistry, Institute of Science,
Suranaree University of Technology
L’Oréal Thailand’s recipient of 2024 ‘For Women in Science’ fellowship in Life Sciences
Research topic: Development of Photosensitizers and Nano-Delivery Systems as Alternative Precision Medicine for Cancer Treatment
‘I have always been drawn to solving complex problems, particularly those related to sustainability, as they are crucial for our future. Growing up in Bangkok, I never felt that my gender limited my career choices, thanks to the diverse representation of my educators across all subjects, including science. However, during my undergraduate and graduate studies in the US, I observed a significant gender imbalance in STEM fields, with far fewer female scientists in academia. This disparity may impact how young girls perceive science as a career path. To address this issue, it is vital to highlight and celebrate female role models who excel in STEM, making their achievements more visible to inspire the next generation.
‘All scientists face challenges in their careers, but gender-specific obstacles reflect broader societal inequalities. One effective way to navigate these difficulties is to connect with other women in STEM, build a supportive network and seek mentors and role models. By sharing experiences and solutions, we can find strength in our community, advocate for change, and ensure our voices are heard. Remember, persistence and support go hand in hand in overcoming challenges.’
Dr Pongkarn Chakthranont
National Nanotechnology Center,
National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA)
L’Oréal Thailand’s recipient of 2024 ‘For Women in Science’ fellowship in Physical Sciences
Research topic: Electrocatalytic Systems for Greenhouse Gas Reduction and Sustainable Chemistry
‘To increase the participation of girls in STEM, schools, teachers and families all need to work together. Schools can contribute by incorporating stories about women in STEM into their curricula and establishing special programmes like clubs or camps specifically for girls. Teachers play a crucial role as well; they should encourage girls to take the lead in class activities and connect them with women already working in STEM fields for guidance and inspiration. Families can support their daughters by nurturing their interest in STEM from an early age with educational toys and resources.
‘I urge everyone to believe in their potential and understand that perseverance leads to results. Maintain your passion and curiosity; consistently ask questions and seek new knowledge in your areas of interest. This proactive approach not only deepens your understanding of complex topics but also opens up new opportunities. Remember, it is our ongoing self-development and resolve that pave the way for greater accomplishments. These successes may manifest as further accolades or as meaningful contributions to society, which ultimately hold even greater value.’
Assoc Prof Dr Waleeporn Donphai
Department of Chemical Engineering,
Faculty of Engineering, Kasetsart University
L’Oréal Thailand’s recipient of 2024 ‘For Women in Science’ fellowship in Physical Sciences
Research topic: Greenhouse Gas Utilization through Catalytic Mechanisms for Sustainable Agriculture and Industry towards Net Zero Emissions
