In this special episode of The Untold Science: Women in STEM , we speak with Prof. Hoda Alkhzaimi — a pioneering leader in emerging industries, investment, and economic development, and a champion for women in STEAM. With over two decades of experience, she has led work across sovereign wealth, national innovation strategies, Entreprenurship initiatives, investments and emerging technologies as in cyber security, quantum, semiconductors and secure hardware development, AI and cryptography amidst others, redefining how science and the economy intersect to drive sustainable progress.

This inspiring conversation explores what it means to be an Emirati woman in global leadership — reflecting on Dr. Hoda’s journey in advanced sciences, her commitment to national transformation, and her vision for integrating innovation with economic sovereignty.

Dr Lesley Lancaster, a professor of biology at the University of Aberdeen, explores gender inequities in the field and shares her insight on how fair practices in academia can look, including hiring and motherhood. She highlights the importance of women's ‘champions’ and role models as she reflects upon her research journey.

Dr Samira Khalaji, a researcher at NYU Abu Dhabi, is a co-host on this episode.

We have come so far, yet we still have so much to do! Dr Azam Gholami, associate professor of Physics at NYU Abu Dhabi, tells us about her journey in science, which started in Iran. She shares the obstacles she faced and how many of them are still present (albeit differently) across the world.

Dr Pascale Anglade, a physician and medical director at Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi tells us about the unique challenges that women in healthcare face. With medical experience in three continents, she emphasizes the need for inclusive practices at the doctor's office and illustrates how they can look like in different cultures.

Dr Rana Dajani, a tenured professor of biology and biotechnology at Hashemite University, author, and Social Entrepreneur, talks about the different experiences she had across countries and continents. She highlights the importance of context-specific inclusion, diversity, equity and belonging and empowers young women to pursue careers in STEM.

In this episode, Dr Kirsten Sadler Edepli, a biology Professor at NYU Abu Dhabi and Global Network Professor of Biology, talks about the importance of embracing failure and mentorship in research. She shares her pioneering work in development, disease, and regeneration, and the experience of managing a lab and a classroom.

In this inaugural episode, our host, Dr Enas Qudeimat, introduces herself and describes her journey as a woman in science. Join us as we embark on the exciting mission of this podcast to shine a light on the science stories yet untold. You will hear successful women in STEM across the globe narrate their triumphs, challenges, research, passions, and words of empowerment for future scientists.