In celebration of International Women’s Day, we shine a spotlight on eight exceptional mothers in Singapore who are making waves in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). These remarkable women not only excel in their respective fields but also balance their careers with motherhood, proving that women can lead in innovation and discovery while nurturing their families.
1. Dr. Vandana Ramachandran – Championing Women in STEM & Leadership
TAP Spotlight on International Women’s Day: 8 Inspiring Mums in STEM | Image from Singapore Women in Science
Co-founder, Singapore Women in Science (SgWIS) | Founder, ASTAR Postdoc Society (APECSS) | Coach for Women in STEM and Leadership
Dr. Vandana Ramachandran has dedicated her career to supporting and mentoring women in STEM. As the co-founder of Singapore Women in Science (SgWIS) and founder of ASTAR Postdoc Society (APECSS), she has actively built platforms that empower and connect women in scientific research.
Apart from her leadership roles, she is also a certified coach for women in STEM and leadership, helping female scientists navigate career challenges, build confidence, and achieve leadership positions. Her work ensures that more women are represented in senior positions in science, breaking barriers for future generations.
2. Dr. Laxmi Iyer – A Voice for Science and Environmental Advocacy
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Science Communicator | Former Co-founder & Managing Editor, Biotechin.Asia | Corporate Communications Team, Singapore National Eye Centre
Dr. Laxmi Iyer is a passionate science communicator who believes in making complex scientific concepts accessible to the public. She co-founded and managed Biotechin.Asia, a science communication platform that translated groundbreaking scientific discoveries into engaging and understandable content.
Currently, she works in the Corporate Communications team at the Singapore National Eye Centre, where she continues to bridge the gap between science and society. She is also an outspoken advocate for women in science and environmental sustainability, using her platform to raise awareness about climate change and biodiversity conservation.
3. Dr. Natasa Bajalovic – Advancing Research in Technology & Innovation
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Senior Research Fellow, Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD) | PhD Graduate, Nanyang Technological University
Dr. Natasa Bajalovic is an accomplished research scientist in technology and innovation. After earning her PhD at Nanyang Technological University (NTU), she continued her research journey as a Senior Research Fellow at the Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD).
Her work focuses on cutting-edge technological advancements, particularly in engineering and applied sciences. She is a dedicated mentor to young researchers, advocating for greater female participation in STEM fields.
4. Dr. Anne Bendt – A Leader in Lipidomics and Biomedical Research
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Principal Investigator & Deputy Director, Singapore Lipidomics Incubator (SLING)
Dr. Anne Bendt is at the forefront of lipidomics research, an emerging field that studies the role of lipids in health and disease. As the Principal Investigator and Deputy Director at the Singapore Lipidomics Incubator (SLING), she leads a team of scientists investigating how lipids contribute to conditions like diabetes, cancer, and cardiovascular diseases.
Her pioneering work has led to breakthroughs in biomedical science, influencing how diseases are diagnosed and treated. She is also a strong advocate for women in STEM, ensuring that more women are involved in biomedical research and innovation.
5. Ms. Maanasa Ravikumar – A Rising Star in Molecular Biology
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PhD Candidate & SINGA Scholar, Institute of Molecular & Cell Biology, A*STAR | Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, NUS
Ms. Maanasa Ravikumar is a young and promising scientist currently pursuing her PhD in molecular and cellular biology at A*STAR’s Institute of Molecular & Cell Biology (IMCB) and the Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, NUS.
Her research is focused on understanding cellular processes at the molecular level, with potential applications in disease treatment and drug development. As a SINGA Scholar, she represents Singapore’s commitment to supporting young female researchers, ensuring they have the resources and mentorship to thrive in STEM.
6. Professor Jackie Yi-Ru Ying – A Global Leader in Nanotechnology
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Founding Executive Director, Institute of Bioengineering and Nanotechnology (IBN), Singapore
Prof. Jackie Yi-Ru Ying is a globally recognized nanotechnology scientist and innovator. She founded the Institute of Bioengineering and Nanotechnology (IBN) in Singapore, where she led pioneering research in nanomedicine, drug delivery, and advanced materials.
Her groundbreaking work has resulted in over 180 patents and has been translated into real-world medical applications. She has received numerous awards for her scientific contributions. Her work inspires young women to pursue engineering and nanotechnology.
7. Dr. Ayesha Khanna – Leading the Way in Artificial Intelligence
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Co-founder & CEO, ADDO AI | AI & Smart Cities Expert
Dr. Ayesha Khanna is a visionary in artificial intelligence (AI) and smart city development. She co-founded ADDO AI, an AI advisory firm and incubator that helps businesses and governments integrate AI-driven solutions into their operations.
Her expertise in data science, machine learning, and urban technology has been instrumental in shaping Singapore’s smart city initiatives. She mentors women in tech, ensuring more women participate in AI, data analytics, and digital innovation.
8. Ms. Lynette Tan – A Trailblazer in the Space Industry
TAP Spotlight on International Women’s Day: 8 Inspiring Mums in STEM | Image from Prestige Online
Chief Executive, Singapore Space and Technology Ltd (SSTL) | Space Industry Advocate
Ms. Lynette Tan is Singapore’s leading advocate for space exploration and technology. As the Chief Executive of Singapore Space and Technology Ltd (SSTL), she has been instrumental in advancing Singapore’s space sector.
She has helped develop satellite technology and promote STEM education for young women. She also leads collaborations with international space agencies. Under her leadership, SSTL continues to position Singapore as a hub for space innovation and research.
These eight outstanding mums in STEM are proof that motherhood and career can go hand in hand. They are breaking barriers, leading in innovation, and inspiring the next generation of female scientists, engineers, and tech leaders.
As we celebrate International Women’s Day, let’s continue to support and uplift women in STEM. By fostering equal opportunities, mentorship, and inclusion, we can create a future where more women thrive in science and technology.
Happy International Women’s Day!
