Why women's networks are indispensable today

Everyday life in science is demanding and often still characterized by male structures. Women face particular challenges on their career path, be it when entering science, climbing the career ladder or in top management. Despite progress, female managers in Germany are still underrepresented: Only one in three management positions and just twelve percent of top management posts are held by women.

This is where women's networks like ours come in. Through exchange, visibility, mutual support and inspiring role models, barriers are broken down so that more women can develop their potential and take on leadership roles in the future.

From the idea to a strong network

The origins of the network lie in the WiMINToring mentoring program, which started its first run in the 2019/2020 winter semester. The aim of this program is to support young female scientists individually in their professional development and to encourage them through discussions, advice and constructive feedback. It quickly became clear that many women lacked a continuous, protected framework for networking beyond the actual mentoring. The networking evenings organized by WiMINToring were greatly appreciated and led to the desire for a permanent women's network in 2021. Since the founding idea, the network has developed impressively. What began as a small circle of committed women has now grown into a lively, diverse network.

Diverse formats and offers

The network now has around 60 members. In addition to doctoral candidates, postdocs, professors and committed female employees from science-related fields, it also includes alumnae who are now working in science, industry or research. Even after their active time in the network, they remain in contact and support subsequent generations, often as mentors or initiators.

The network offers a wide range of activities and enables exchange on several levels. Monthly meetings of the core members provide space for a regular exchange of experiences, mutual empowerment and the discussion of current topics.

Role models for women in science

Large networking evenings are organized four times a year. Here, experts and role models from science and practice give talks on special topics, such as "Women's careers in the male professional world", "Career path: top management" or "Top talent wanted - women in management positions". The most recent network evening at the beginning of December focused on the topic of "Neurodivergence in the workplace" with psychologist Stephanie Wolf. The networking evenings are open to all interested parties, take place in hybrid form and offer interactive discussion rounds.

An additional offer is the network's LinkedIn group. Here, members can easily exchange ideas, maintain contacts and expand their own professional network outside TU Clausthal.

The annual meeting as a community highlight

The highlight of the year is the "summer meeting", which always takes place on the last weekend in June. The Friday evening starts with a networking evening, to which external guests are also invited. The focus is on exciting discussions and the opportunity to make new contacts. On Saturday, workshops are often led by external experts, offering practical tools and space for self-reflection and networking.

The motto for 2026 is "Daring change - rethinking corporate culture". You shouldn't miss it!

Participation desired

The network is open: Every woman, regardless of her position, experience or career, can actively contribute, suggest ideas and express wishes. A three-member board - Dr Angela Binder, Dr Anja Ufkes and Dr Alena Storm - coordinates the organization of events and manages the further development of the network together with Equal Opportunities Officer Dr Natalia Schaffel-Mancini. If you have any questions or would like to provide new impetus, you will always find dedicated contact persons here.