6# Julija Baniukevič: Championing STEM Education and Policy

Julija Baniukevič is a prominent figure in STEM, serving as a Science Explorer, Educator, Policy Officer, and Research Manager at the Research Council of Lithuania and the Nature Research Centre. With a career rooted in bionanotechnology and policy advocacy, Julija has dedicated herself to advancing scientific research and promoting STEM education.

Her passion for science started early, encouraged by her family and mentors. This led to her research in bionanotechnology, where she received multiple accolades, including first-place finishes in the National Young Scientists Competition. Her work evolved to address real-world problems, designing innovative immunosensors to monitor health and the environment.

Julija's influence extends beyond research. As a former vice-president of Eurodoc and president of the Lithuanian Society of Young Researchers, she has advocated for integrating scientific research into education. Her policy work at the European Commission focused on nanotechnology and supporting young scientists. She has also worked to elevate the visibility of women in STEM, organizing events to highlight the contributions of female scientists.

Despite her achievements, Julija has faced challenges as a woman in STEM, balancing career demands with societal gender expectations. However, she views these struggles as opportunities for advocacy. “Mentorship and resilience are key”, she says, focusing on helping young women pursue STEM careers. Julija has been a mentor to many young women, helping them navigate the challenges of a STEM career and encouraging them to break barriers.

She emphasizes the importance of inclusive practices in STEM, advocating for mentorship programs, gender-sensitive policies, and diverse representation. For Julija, creating a supportive environment where women can thrive is essential to the future of STEM. Her work continues to inspire the next generation of scientists, with a focus on inclusivity and collaboration.