Description

The Science and Technology in Society (STS) forum was founded in 2004 by Koji Omi, a former Minister of Finance and former Minister of State for Science and Technology Policy in the Japanese government. In 2021, STS forum welcomed a new chairman, Prof. Hiroshi Komiyama, Chairman of the Mitsubishi Research Institute, Inc. and former President, The University of Tokyo. STS forum aims to provide a mechanism for open discussions and to build a human network to address the new challenges and opportunities, or the “the lights and shadows,” stemming from the application of science and technology. The problems surrounding science and technology are increasingly complex, and STS forum brings together global leaders from multiple sectors for a three-day annual meeting.
The representation of women at the forum has historically been low. However, women’s participation has steadily increased, from 12.3% in 2016 to 28% in 2022, with HLF support and a clear commitment from STS forum leadership. Further, gender diversity in STEM was a session topic for the first time in 2020. Chairman Komiyama has signaled an even deeper commitment to increasing women’s participation in all aspects of the forum.
Through its Clare Boothe Luce (CBL) Program and complementary Convergence portfolio of grants, HLF has become a leading supporter of women in STEM in the U.S. and is increasingly recognized globally for this work. STS forum notes that HLF has emphasized and contributed more than any other foundation to the forum’s goals for women’s participation. This continues to be a unique opportunity for HLF to have a global influence and move this aspect of our strategic women in STEM agenda forward. Indeed, the California Technical Institute’s assistant professor of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Dr. Gozde Demierer, participated in the STS forum Young Leaders Program, providing a rare opportunity for one-on-one, conversations with Nobel Laureates.
With Foundation support, AA-STS seeks general operating support for the forum. Additionally, we are considering an additional special grant for the fall to support the women’s leadership convening.