In laboratories around the world, women are shaping the future of measurement science. Their expertise underpins everything from medical breakthroughs to environmental sustainability, space exploration and global trade.

Yet, despite the fundamental role metrology plays in our daily lives, the voices of women in this field are not always equally heard.

On this International Day for Women and Girls in Science 2025, six leading female metrologists are sharing their advice to young women aspiring to careers in their field. We hope that their voices will contribute global conversation on this important day and beyond.

On Navigating Perceptions

Curiosity is the key to thriving in any scientific field, no matter the gender balance in the room. The science is what should captivate you and that passion is what will carry you through.

"Don't ask yourself whether this field is “women-friendly” says Dr Hao Fang, Principal Physicist – Mass, Kibble Balance, the Bureau International des Poids et Mesures (BIPM)  “Simply approach it with enthusiasm and curiosity.”

“It makes me laugh when people call me 'Mr Fang' in emails. The first time I became acutely aware of the gender imbalance in metrology was during one of the very first technical meetings of the Kibble Balance, when the director of the hosting institute remarked in surprise, ‘Oh, there’s a woman sitting in the meeting room.’

But the truth is, after 20 years working on in this field, I no longer think about the fact that I am the only woman in a room. I think about how to get more time in the lab, diving deeper into this fascinating and complex experiment.”

On Career Paths in Metrology

For women in science, metrology offers a uniquely rewarding career path, where real-world impact meets intellectual challenge. Metrology bridges the gap between theory and application, providing measurable solutions to global challenges.

“Unlike research or publication alone, this profession has tangible real-world impacts [that extend to and instil confidence in] testing laboratories, patients, consumers, regulators, policymakers, standards and conformance bodies,” says Dr Tang Lin Teo, Division Director, Pharmaceutical Division, Health Sciences Authority (HSA).

My team and I tackle emerging measurement challenges daily, applying metrological expertise to public health issues and engaging with diverse stakeholders.

It is a career that marries scientific rigor with societal relevance, where every advancement contributes to building trust and safeguarding well-being.

So, for young women who desire to make a difference through science like me, you can be sure that a career in chemical metrology is fulfilling, dynamic and impactful.

Beyond technical expertise, women in metrology bring new perspectives, collaborative leadership and innovative thinking to the field.

“Women bring invaluable contributions to the field of metrology," asserts Shamsa Saleh Al Kayyoomi, Senior Electricity, Time and Frequency Metrologist at the Emirates Metrology Institute.

From “enhancing accuracy and research” to “the application of measurement technologies,” women’s contributions are essential for “ever more innovative and impactful results."

And, in fields like medical physics, where precision can mean the difference between life and death, Dr Zakithi Msimang, Medical Radiation Physicist - SSDL Officer, Division of Human Health, Department of Nuclear Sciences and Applications, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), reminds us that collaboration and confidence in your abilities are essential.

Her advice to women pursuing a career in metrology is to:

“Be passionate about your work, build upon your strengths and embrace opportunities to learn from your team members. Your greatest competition is yourself.”

In summary, if you trust your skills and stay open to learning from others, the rewards will be immeasurable—not just for your own career but for the people whose lives your work impacts.

On Expanding Your Horizons

Finally, a career in metrology is not confined to a single laboratory or country—it is a truly global science.

For young women entering the field, metrology can offer opportunities to work alongside scientists from diverse backgrounds, contribute to groundbreaking research and see first-hand how measurement science shapes policies, industries and lives on a global scale.

“The future is interdisciplinary” says Dr Victoria Coleman, Section Manager, Nanometrology, National Measurement Institute, Australia (NMIA) ; International Committee for Weights and Measures (CIPM) Member; and Consultative Committee for Length (CCL) President.

“There are so many opportunities to bring different experiences and technical backgrounds together to solve complex problems. Know that in this field, your voice and your experience will make a difference!”

Continuing this theme, Dr Anna Cypionka, Director of the International Liaison and Communication Department at the Bureau International des Poids et Mesures (BIPM) reminds young scientists that “Embracing mobility and cross-border cooperation can open unexpected doors”

"I couldn't have imagined, when I started my career as a biochemist in Germany, that it would take me across continents (from Latin America and South East Asia to France), connecting with experts to solve challenges that impact trade, healthcare and environmental monitoring.

My advice to young women considering a career in metrology is to stay curious and open to opportunities beyond national borders—your contributions could be invaluable on the world stage."

A Call to the Next Generation

From laboratories in national institutes to global collaborations, the future of metrology depends on attracting young minds from all walks of life who will drive the next wave of scientific advancement.

On this International Day for Women and Girls in Science and during this, our 150th Anniversary year, the BIPM would like to reaffirm its commitment to fostering a global metrology community that is forward thinking and represents the needs and voices of people everywhere.