What is OWSD?

The Organization for Women in Science for the Developing World (OWSD) is a network of over 12,000 women scientists living and working in the developing world

These women can access training and networking opportunities to support their research and leadership throughout their careers, as well as advocating for gender equality in science and technology.

Scientific research can provide solutions to the world's most challenging problems such as climate change, food and water security, and the threat of pandemics. Women from developing countries are on the frontline of these challenges and, as scientists, they can use this highly relevant experience in the design and implementation of scientific research.

However, these women make up only a third of researchers in the world. It is OWSD's mission to attract more women from the Global South into scientific careers, and provide resources and programmes that will support them to become influential leaders in their fields.

If women are included as both participants in scientific research and as the beneficiaries of scientific research, the impact on children, on the elderly, and on local communities will be direct and highly effective.

OWSD began as an idea in 1987, adopted a constitution in 1989 and was officially launched as an organisation in 1993. Since then, OWSD has increased its membership to 12,000+ women scientists in developing countries.

For full details of OWSD's history, please download our PDF below.