A document by Jessica Borger. Click on the document to view its contents.

This review considers the persistent gender inequality in healthcare and STEMM, highlighting the specific challenges women face in reaching leadership roles. Key gendered barriers include unequal access to healthcare and STEMM leadership positions, biased evaluation practices, an implied obligation of service, a higher load of laboratory and service work, a greater expectation for pastoral care, heavier teaching commitments, and a disproportionate share of family care and household responsibilities for women compared to male colleagues. Cultural and societal norms further amplify these challenges, with systemic gender bias limiting women's opportunities through restricted access to education, reproductive healthcare, and insufficient understanding of, or legal protections against, workplace harassment. Together, these barriers shape the career paths of women and play a significant role in contributing to the persistence of gender inequity in the retention and promotion of women in leadership positions in healthcare and STEMM.

In science and academia, success is often shaped by both knowledge and networking. Reflecting on nearly two decades in academic research, I recount my experience as a postdoctoral immunologist returning to Australia with limited local connections and support. Upon re-establishing myself in Australia, I initially faced barriers that restricted my visibility and collaborations. A turning point came when personal challenges motivated me to actively network, leading to valuable collaborations and career opportunities. By initiating conversations with academic leaders and peers, I expanded my network and established numerous leadership roles, even as a ‘junior’ postdoc through founding a symposium, engaging with an immunology society, volunteering on various academic and advocacy committees, contributing to public outreach and nationally advocating for gender equity in science. These experiences reinforced that networking is about fostering meaningful relationships and creating opportunities to grow professionally. I provide advice on how to increase your networks by volunteering at work, when attending conferences, through contributing to societies and building social media presence. My journey highlights the importance of being proactive in building networks, which can open doors, amplify one’s voice, and drive career advancement in science and academia.

In the unique landscape of immunology research in New Zealand, this article explores the collaborative networks spanning the two main islands, through a conversation with Associate Professor Joanna Kirman and Dr. Robert Weinkove. The discussions delve into their dynamic collaborations with countries like Asia, Australia, and the United States from their labs at the University of Otago and the Malaghan Institute respectively, provides insight into the translational research landscape of New Zealand, and the integration of Māori culture into all aspects of scientific research and clinical practise. Kirman’s work in understanding immunological memory in tuberculosis and Weinkove’s research in cancer immunotherapies, particularly CAR-T cells, are highlighted. The natural beauty and accessibility of New Zealand supports it’s research diversity.

Emeritus Professor Margaret Baird forged a luminary career for her pioneering research investigating the role of dendritic cells (DCs) in cancer and infectious diseases, as an inspirational lecturer at the University of Otago and a role model to many. In this article celebrating the 100-year anniversary of ICB, we discuss Margaret’s career and life journey through the eyes of her family and co-authors, as we explore her many publications in ICB and beyond.