Women of Yesterday and Today in Phytochemical Research

Recent statistics reveal a disparity towards the female gender also in the world of science from which one would expect a more open culture compared to other sectors of society.

Although in recent years women have represented the majority among doctoral students and young researchers, the male gender largely prevails in top positions; in fact, the chances of women obtaining important positions and funds for research are much lower.

Even in the field of natural products the situation is not very different. The Nobel Prize won in 2015 by You You Tu for the discovery of artemisinin has brought to light the importance of the female contribution in research on compounds from medicinal, food and perfume plants, a priority topic of our society.

For this reason, SIF has decided to organize a workshop dedicated to women of yesterday and today in scientific research in the field of natural compounds in full harmony with one of the sustainable development goals established by the United Nations Agenda 2030 (Sustainable Development Goals, Objective 5 " Achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls”) which the University of Pisa has also set itself the goal of following.