Celebrating the International Day of Women and Girls in Science

KWR provides an inclusive working and research environment in which everyone feels welcome, challenged and supported. Since today is the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, we asked our female scientists: “Why do you enjoy working in water science so much?” We are happy to relay what they had to say about their choice for and experiences in science.

“The area between “the desire to improve sustainability and efficiency” and  “safe clean water and sanitation for everyone (primary goal of water cycle)”  is fantastic!”

Tessa van den Brand PhD MSc

“During my biology studies I was drawn to toxicology research as this contributes to a healthy living environment. It is very rewarding to work together with colleagues from different disciplines within KWR and the water sector to support good water quality.”

Milou Dingemans PhD

“As a child I already was fascinated by science, so I studied chemical engineering. I’ve worked in industry, and it’s nice to see people now can buy the things I helped to develop. However, I missed the societal aspect. Now I work at KWR, developing methods to provide people all over the world with an essential product: clean drinking water.”

Roberta Hofman PhD MSc

“I enjoy working in water science, because it allows me to contribute to a more sustainable world.”

Sija Stofberg PhD

“I’m working as a hydrologist at KWR. Working in water science gives me the opportunity to contribute to solving problems in society and nature. I like that my job allows me to work on diverse projects that have a direct link to practice. Combining the technical solutions with social aspects is what makes this field of research interesting.”

Sharon Clevers MSc

“When I was about 14, I watched a documentary about the destruction of the river Amazonia. “I wish I could do something about it”, I said to no one in particular. My sister answered, and said: “You can”. Sometimes that’s all it takes. I’m an environmental engineer at KWR, specialized in wastewater treatment. And I’m a woman, working in science for 23 years.”

Maria Lousada Ferreira PhD

“As a program manager, every day I work together with many great scientists at KWR to understand how to ensure a sufficient and safe water supply for the future. It really motivates me to continue learning and working towards more understanding and a better future. Especially if this also means I can support other women in science.”

Geertje Pronk PhD

“I like working with data and getting the information that is in data out. In water science there is a lot of data available that can be put to good use, for instance to improve water quality, monitoring, and regulation. That is what I aim for at KWR.”

Tessa Pronk