Women In Science feat. Galbha Duggal

Introducing Galbha Duggal, Chief Scientific Officer at Oxford StemTech, a pioneering spinout from the University of Oxford. With a background in Stem Cell Biology and Research we discus how it was to navigate the complexities of being a woman in science.

In this blog Galbha shares her experience in having to prove her capabilities as a scientific researcher, face racial bias due to her ethnicity and as a women having to face greater expectations to balance work and family responsibilities.

The purpose of article series ‘Women In Science’ is to feature, showcase and share the reality of being someone that identifies as a woman in science. We gather and showcase stories, career journeys, as well as advice and wisdom.

Could you please introduce yourself as well as your background?

I am Galbha Duggal, a scientist by profession and one of the co-founders and Chief Scientific Officer of Oxford StemTech, a spinout from the University of Oxford. My educational journey began in India, continued through high school in Oman and Dubai, and was driven by a fascination with biology and the human body. This passion led me to pursue a postgraduation in Stem Cell Biology at Newcastle University and a PhD in Stem Cell Research at Ghent University, Belgium. I later moved back to the UK to conduct postdoctoral research at the University of Oxford, focusing on patient-specific stem cells and neuroscience.

Have you faced any challenges or barriers as a woman in science, and how did you overcome these?

I have been fortunate to be surrounded by supportive peers throughout my career. However, there have been instances where I had to prove my capabilities as a scientific researcher and face racial bias due to my ethnicity, being a woman and a mother. I relied on my self-confidence, shaped by moving to different schools, and approached these challenges with a smile and hard work. This was made possible by surrounding myself around my supportive family, colleagues and mentors who encouraged me and helped me push through without undermining others. It allowed me to stay positive, ignore the noise and focus on my goals.

How do you feel gender influences opportunities within the science sector?

Although I feel we have progressed a lot in terms of equal opportunity, I am aware challenges such as gender bias, pay gaps, and underrepresentation in senior positions continue to persist. It has been inspiring to see increase in the number of women entering scientific fields however, women are often less represented in leadership roles, which can impact decision-making and mentorship opportunities. Despite efforts, unconscious biases continue to persist and there is a need for more systemic changes to ensure equal opportunities. Women also often face greater expectations to balance work and family responsibilities. This can limit their availability for demanding roles or additional projects that are crucial for career advancement.

Are there any changes that you would implement in the educational sector to make the field of science more attractive to females as a career path?

Early encouragement for girls in STEM is essential for achieving greater equality and benefiting from diverse perspectives in science. Increasing exposure to academic and corporate environments through work experience or student internships will provide them with real-time insights into the impact of science, making it more attractive and helping them understand its value.

What would you say has been the best advice you have received during your career as a female working in your role?

“Be curious – follow your instinct – have a plan B”. This is the best advice I’ve ever received. Curiosity drives innovation, trusting your instincts guide you in the right direction, even when faced with uncertainty. Importantly, having a plan B ensures you’re prepared for unexpected challenges, allowing you to adapt and continue moving forward.

What advice would you like to pass on to the next gen of females in science?

Remember that your contributions are invaluable, and your presence in science is shaping a better future. Most importantly, stay inspired and driven. Seek mentorship for guidance, network actively, and remain curious. There is always a learning opportunity, even if things don’t go as planned. Give yourself time to reflect but remember that you always learn something from unexpected outcomes. Stay positive, surround yourselves with people who lift you up and believe in your potential.