The Science That Moves Us Forward
Science shapes the future long before most people see it — through discoveries that heal, technologies that connect, and ideas that challenge what’s possible. It begins with curiosity, grows through persistence, and becomes powerful when people are bold enough to push boundaries and imagine something greater. This summer, AWIS is spotlighting the women behind that momentum.
Follow along each week and meet the scientists helping shape what’s next!
Ways you can support the next generation of women in STEM
Supporters & Spotlight Partners
Thank you to the organizations supporting participation in Summer of Science and helping us share the stories of women making an impact through science.
Interested in sponsoring Summer of Science?
Explore full-summer and single-week sponsorship opportunities for organizations, partners, and supporters.
2026 Summer of Science T-Shirt
AWIS members submitted bold, creative designs inspired by this year’s Summer of Science theme, The Science That Moves Us Forward — and the votes are in!
The winning design, created by AWIS member Dr. R. Yagmur Yegin, brings together discovery, innovation, and scientific impact through a future-forward design celebrating the many fields shaping STEM today.
The 2026 Summer of Science collection is now available in the AWIS Shop!
Featured Summer Screening
AWIS is hosting a free virtual film screening exploring curiosity, courage, and the story behind one woman’s groundbreaking journey in space. Through film, we hope to spark reflection, conversation, and a deeper appreciation for the people and discoveries helping shape our future.
Spacewoman
July 20–26, 2026
Spacewoman explores the life and legacy of Eileen Collins, the first woman to pilot and command a Space Shuttle mission. Through personal stories and historic milestones, the film highlights leadership, perseverance, and the courage to push beyond what once seemed possible.
Registration will open soon.
Summer Schedule
The career possibilities for women in STEM are limitless! If you’re interested in sharing your career journey, complete this form.
Discovery
Innovation
Impact
Science in Everyday Life
From the products we use to the routines we rely on, science shapes everyday life in ways we often overlook. Through her work with 8 Count Cosmetics, Savanah Saldaña-Shumaker combines chemistry, product development, and entrepreneurship to create cosmetics designed with real-world users in mind.
Data for Better Decisions
From insurance and financial planning to risk management, data helps organizations make informed decisions in an uncertain world. Through her work as an actuarial analyst, Angela Matope combines mathematics, statistics, and analytical thinking to help organizations better understand risk and prepare for what comes next.
Keeping the World Healthy
Infection prevention plays a critical role in protecting public health and reducing the spread of illness. Through her work at PDI, Candice Taylor leads teams developing solutions used in healthcare and food service environments. By combining chemistry, product development, and leadership, she helps create safer spaces for the people and communities they serve.
Growing a More Sustainable Future
Growing healthy crops is essential to food security, environmental sustainability, and resilient agricultural systems. Through her research at the University of Florida, Christ Mane Belizaire studies plant diseases and disease resistance in crops, helping identify healthier and more resilient blueberry varieties. By combining plant pathology, field research, and agricultural science, she is working to support growers and strengthen the future of food production.
AI for Better Health
Artificial intelligence is transforming healthcare and medical research. Through her work at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Sol Rosito develops statistical and AI methods that improve cancer risk prediction, support earlier detection, and help turn complex biomedical data into meaningful clinical insights.
Materials That Matter
This week explores the chemistry behind advanced materials and the innovations shaping healthcare and sustainability. Through her work in polymer chemistry, Adaeze Osakwe develops materials and pharmaceutical formulations that improve drug delivery while advancing more sustainable approaches to materials design.
Keeping the World Connected
This week spotlights the systems, technologies, and research that power communication and connectivity. From cybersecurity to network infrastructure, scientists and technologists are helping protect information, strengthen digital systems, and keep people connected across industries and communities.
Expanding What's Possible
This week highlights the science driving aerospace innovation, secure communications, and emerging technologies shaping the future of exploration. From space research to advanced cybersecurity systems, scientists are helping expand the boundaries of what’s possible on Earth and beyond.
Science That Solves the Case
This week explores how forensic science uses chemistry, biology, and analytical methods to uncover evidence and support investigations. Through careful analysis and scientific reasoning, forensic scientists help turn complex questions into clear answers.
Science on the Move
This week highlights the science and engineering driving transportation, mobility, and the systems people rely on every day. From vehicle innovation to infrastructure and emerging technologies, scientists and engineers are helping shape how people and communities stay connected.
Leading Science Forward
This week spotlights scientists advancing medicine, research, and the future of human health. Through clinical development, neuroscience, and scientific leadership, researchers are helping drive discoveries from the lab toward real-world impact.