Women in STEM

Dr Awinder Kaur

Position: Associate Professor and Head of Group – Digital Technologies and Machine Intelligence

Megan Clement

Course: PhD in Plastics Analysis, Sorting & Recycling Technologies Through Intelligent Classification

Megan graduated from Swansea University with a First-class Bachelor of Engineering degree in 2023 and has been advancing her engineering knowledge at WMG ever since. An advocate for sustainability, Megan is currently working towards a PhD in plastic analysis, sorting, and recycling technologies to help create a circular economy that’s kind to people and the planet.

“I'm proud to be a woman in science, promoting equality and balance. Leading a team in the Red Bull Soapbox Race was a proud moment. My advice to young women aspiring to have a career in STEM is: if you set your mind to it, you can achieve anything.”

Dr Ruohan Zhang

Position: Assistant Professor in Applied Artificial Intelligence and Module Leader for Introduction to Health Informatics and Electronic Health Records Systems.

Ruohan specialises in the application of machine learning and AI techniques to enhance understanding of brain health. She has published several papers in NatureLink opens in a new window research journals; her most recent publication in Nature Mental Health, which explores dietary patterns and brain healthLink opens in a new window, gained media attention from some of the world's major publications, including The TimesLink opens in a new window and The Washington PostLink opens in a new window.

“Trust your curiosity, confidently embrace challenges as valuable opportunities to grow, and never underestimate the strength of women's unique perspectives. As women, our voices and insights can drive innovation and create meaningful change”.

Dr Fatemeh Shahbazi CEng PhD MIMechE SFHEA

Position: Assistant Professor in Thermo-Fluid Mechanics and Engineering Simulation

Inspired by a childhood dream of building aeroplanes, Fatemeh’s passion for mathematics and aerospace engineering has seen her forge a career in computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and machine learning.

“Engineers are changing the world—one idea, one breakthrough, one innovation at a time. But today, less than 14% of engineers are women. That means the world is missing out on your ideas, your creativity, and your voice. STEM needs you. Your curiosity. Your brilliance. Your unique perspective. If you have ever wondered how things work or dreamed about making the world better, you already have the mind of an engineer. The future is being built right now. Make sure you are part of it.”

India Palmer

Position: Teaching Fellow and Apprentice Support Tutor and Module Lead for the APEP Work-based Project

India’s enthusiasm for engineering began in 1999 when she started working for Caterpillar UK Ltd. Since then, she has focused on educating others, and is passionate about ensuring equality of opportunity for anyone who wants to study STEM subjects by raising awareness of the opportunities available through outreach events and student experience activities.

“Don’t think you need to change who you are to be an engineer. If you like engineering then there is definitely a role out there for you, whether you are into big picture, loud, colourful scenarios or small, detailed, quiet projects – or anything in between!”

Bethany Haynes EngTech MIMechE

Position: Engineering Technician

A WMG Academy alumna, Bethany has always been fascinated by how things work. She spent her early years playing with wooden toys and Jenga blocks, which inspired her love for woodwork. Since studying joinery at college – where she was the only woman on the course – she has gone from strength to strength, obtaining professional registration with the Institution of Mechanical EngineersLink opens in a new window without formal engineering qualifications.

“I’ve been able to show students and colleagues that women and girls can thrive in STEM. Recently, a colleague said thank you for showing her it’s possible for women to be an engineer and be practical. This is so important because I didn’t have any female role models in this industry when I started or when I was in school.”

Philomena Lavery

Course: MSc Cyber Security and Management, (2020)

Position: Senior VP Digital Security at AVEVA

As a woman championing human-centred cyber resilience, shaping the industry as Senior VP Digital Security at AVEVA and sharing her expertise at WMG, Philomena's remarkable influence drives change, marking her as a standout woman in her field.

 

Dr Di LiLink opens in a new window

Course: MSc e-Business Management, (2013), PhD Research, (2017), MSc Cyber Security and Management, (2020)

Position: Associate Professor and Programme Lead for the  MSc International Trade, Strategy, and Operations (ITSO)Link opens in a new window

“When it comes to people and culture, diversity is crucial in global trade. You’re constantly engaging with different countries and cultures, so respect is vital. In this context of diversity, I believe it's crucial to empower everyone, particularly women, to pursue careers in this field."

Freya BexonLink opens in a new window

Course: MSc Engineering Business Leadership

Amina ZahidLink opens in a new window

Course: MSc Programme & Project Management, (2021). WMG Scholar

Position: Project Manager at Mott MacDonald

Originally from Lahore, Pakistan, Amina now works in the UK for a leading engineering, development, and management consultancy.

She says, "As one of the only few women in the room, it might feel challenging at first, but if you're willing to learn, grow, and adapt, you'll thrive. Never underestimate your ideas. Confidence, a growth mindset, and adaptability are the keys to success."

Deeksha Sampath MSc MIET

Course: MSc Manufacturing Systems Engineering & Management (2020)

Position: Technology Transfer Engineer (Sustainability & Materials)

A Women’s Engineering Society ‘Top Women in Engineering 2024’, Deeksha’s love of engineering developed from an early age. Inspired by her engineer grandfather, she grew up building Lego sets and dreamed of working in the industry to help change society for the better.

She now implements Net Zero strategies within businesses and supports under-represented groups to pursue careers in STEM, helping build a better, more sustainable future.

“Women who want to pursue engineering shouldn’t doubt themselves. Engineering is something that enhances your life and there is no gendered stereotype to enhancing people’s lives.”

Elise GhentLink opens in a new window

Course: BSc Cyber Security (2024)

Elise talks about her time at Warwick and how she was President of Cyberwomen@warwick Link opens in a new window- a community which empowers, supports, and connects women in cybersecurity. Her passion for positive change towards diversity in STEM lies so deep that she is now a Branch Manager at CyberWomen Groups C.I.C., a student-led initiative operating all across the UK.

Dr Freeha AzmatLink opens in a new window

Position: Associate Professor, WMG

Freeha pursued a degree in Information and Communications Systems Engineering at the National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST) in Pakistan. It was an unconventional choice for a woman, but she always believed in transforming challenges into opportunities. She says, “I strongly believe in giving back and mentoring future generations. I’d like to show the young girls there that there is a world of possibilities for them in the engineering and technology sector.”

Anittah OwomugishaLink opens in a new window

Course: MSc Engineering Business Management, (2023). Chevening scholar

Position: Assistant Engineering Manager at SSEN Transmission/SSE plc

As a woman pursuing a career in engineering, Anittah found strength in the supportive Warwick community. Anittah has been nominated for the Professional Rising Star of the Year at The Black Scottish Awards 2025.

She says, “As a black woman in a technical field, this moment carries even more weight. It’s a reflection of progress, of visibility, and of the importance of creating space for all voices to be seen and heard.”

Professor Margaret LowLink opens in a new window

Position: Director of Outreach and Widening Participation for WMG

From a young age, Margaret was drawn to science and technology, inspired by their power to solve complex problems and improve lives. This curiosity shaped her path, driving her to promote STEM education and community engagement. She embodies this year’s theme for International Women's Day, Accelerate Action, by leading inclusive STEM initiatives that create lasting impact in education and beyond.

Dr Jane MarshallLink opens in a new window

Position: Course Leader for MSc Engineering Business ManagementLink opens in a new window,  Module Owner and tutor for Quality, Reliability and Maintenance and Department Senior Tutor (PG).

Jane advocates for diversity in engineering, especially encouraging women to pursue STEM fields. She says, “Encouraging more women in engineering requires changing how we raise our children and providing equal opportunities early on. It's about nurturing a culture where girls feel empowered to explore STEM fields and supporting them to thrive professionally."

Olivia Larsson MEng

Course: Engineering MEng with Intercalated Year

Position: Graduate Trainee Engineer

“Engineering is an inspiring field to be in, particularly here at WMG, as the research and development we’re involved in is actively improving industry and people’s lives; all you need is curiosity, creativity and some dedication. It’s especially exciting to see some of my work come to life through the Coventry Very Light Rail (CVLR) installation in the city centre!”

Thao Nguyen

Course: MSc Engineering Business Management

Passionate about turning scientific ideas into real-world impact, Thao is a Women in STEM Scholar currently studying for an MSc in Engineering Business Management.

“Many women might feel that they’re not exceptional enough to apply for a scholarship. I used to feel that way too. But I realised that even if you think your chances are 1%, it’s still worth trying. If you don’t apply, your chances are zero. So why not take that leap? Building self-confidence is something only you can do for yourself. And the process of daring to believe in yourself is as valuable as any scholarship.”