Authored by Ritsuko Hidaka, Head of JDU, Fujitsu
The future of technology cannot be built without women. Throughout history, countless women have overcome societal barriers to make remarkable contributions to science and technology. Today, as we enter a new era of innovation, women are pioneering advancements in cutting-edge fields such as artificial intelligence (AI), quantum computing, biotechnology and space research.
Their growing presence in these domains is a testament to their exceptional talent and the transformative impact they bring to scientific discovery and technological progress. While traditionally a male-dominated field, women are making significant strides in quantum research, contributing to both foundational theories and practical applications. Quantum research, once confined to theoretical physics, is now driving advancements in computing, cryptography and materials science.
Indian Women Breaking Barriers in STEM
According to World Bank data, women make up for about 43 per cent of the total STEM graduates in India, but account for only 14 per cent of all scientists, engineers and technologists. STEM education equips women with essential as well as transferable skills to navigate the changing times. Increasing women’s participation in STEM not only encourages gender equity but also holds the potential to narrow the pay gap—projected to boost women's cumulative earnings by $299 billion by 2027.
In India, the demand for STEM and technology-related occupations has surged since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, growing by approximately 37% and 38%, respectively. Research indicates that Indian women who pursue science-based careers are more likely to secure employment and earn about 28% more than those in non-technical fields. Beyond enhancing career prospects, STEM education plays a crucial role in human development.
By driving logical reasoning through experiential learning, it empowers children with a diverse skill set and the ability to tackle complex real-world challenges as they transition into adulthood.
Women Driving Quantum Computing Innovation
Quantum computing is a rapidly evolving field with immense potential for transforming industries like cybersecurity, healthcare and finance. Researchers and engineers are actively engaged in developing quantum algorithms, hardware and applications that can redefine technological capabilities. For example, quantum algorithms are at the core of solving complex computational problems efficiently.
Researchers are focusing on designing secure quantum cryptographic systems, optimising quantum machine learning applications and improving quantum error correction techniques. These advancements have far-reaching implications for data security and computational efficiency in industries ranging from banking to defense.
The development of quantum processors and hardware is crucial for the practical implementation of quantum computing. Women scientists are working on building superconducting qubits, photonic quantum systems and hybrid quantum-classical computing models. The push towards developing indigenous quantum hardware is strengthening global advancements in quantum technology.
Limitations In Women’s Participation in STEM
Women’s underrepresentation in STEM remains a global challenge, shaped by systemic barriers at every stage of their career journey. The “leaky pipeline” metaphor aptly illustrates the attrition of women as they progress through STEM fields—spanning entry, experience, retention, and leadership.
At the entry level, deep-rooted gender norms and societal perceptions discourage women from pursuing STEM. The misconception that STEM is a gender-based pursuit, coupled with inadequate gender-sensitive school curricula and untrained educators, limits early exposure.
Women in STEM face unique challenges that require a proactive and inclusive approach to overcome. Despite progress, many still encounter isolation in academic and professional settings, impacting their confidence and sense of belonging. Workplace biases, though less overt today, persist in subtle forms—such as the expectation for women to undertake administrative tasks instead of being given core research opportunities.
Additionally, systemic barriers, lack of accessible childcare support, persistent pay disparities, and limited flexibility in work arrangements, are pushing many women out of STEM careers prematurely.
Leadership pathways remain uneven, with fewer female role models and restricted networking opportunities. Deep-seated biases, coupled with the enduring "glass ceiling," continue to slow the progress of women aspiring to leadership roles in STEM. Research shows that a significant percentage of women in STEM fields report challenges related to gender bias in performance evaluations, along with disparities in pay that start at entry-level roles and widen over time.
To create an equitable and supportive environment for women in quantum research and beyond, systemic reforms are essential. These include fostering inclusive policies, implementing proactive institutional support, and cultivating workplaces that prioritize diversity and equity. By addressing these barriers, we can unlock the full potential of women in STEM and pave the way for a future where their contributions drive innovation and progress in groundbreaking fields like quantum research.
STEM Women in Industry and Academia
Women are increasingly shaping India’s quantum technology landscape through leadership roles in academia, industry and policy-making. In academic institutions like the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) and the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR), women are leading quantum research projects, mentoring students, and driving national initiatives, helping to define the future of quantum science education. In the industry, women entrepreneurs and engineers are making significant contributions to India's growing quantum start-up ecosystem, working on breakthroughs in quantum encryption, quantum cloud computing, and quantum AI.
India has a long history of remarkable women scientists. Dr. Bibha Chowdhury made important discoveries in particle physics, while Dr. Purnima Sinha specialized in X-ray crystallography. Dr. Rajeshwari Chatterjee was a trailblazer in microwave engineering and became the first woman engineer to teach at the Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore. In recent years, scientists like Dr. Tessy Thomas, known as India’s ‘Missile Woman,’ Dr. Ritu Karidhal, a key figure in India’s Mars and Moon missions, and Dr. Chandrima Shaha, the first woman president of the Indian National Science Academy (INSA), have broken barriers and inspired future generations.
Additionally, government and private-sector initiatives are actively promoting gender diversity in quantum research. Programs like the DST Women Scientists Scheme (WOS) and scholarships under the Vigyan Jyoti initiative aim to bridge the gender gap in STEM fields, enabling more women to participate in quantum science.
The time has come where the future of science and technology depends on talent and not gender. With the help of an inclusive and supportive environment, the full potential of the talent pool can be harnessed, driving innovations that will impact not just individual nations but the entire world.
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