Teagasc celebrates International Day of Women and Girls in Science 2026
Today, February 11, marks International Day of Women and Girls in Science and Teagasc is delighted to participant in this United Nations global event.
Centred on the theme of ‘Synergizing AI, Social Science, STEM and Finance: Building Inclusive Futures for Women and Girls’, International Day of Women and Girls in Science (IDWGIS) 2026 champions women in science and helps shape a future where science and gender equality advance together.
According to UNESCO, women continue to represent less than one third of the world’s researchers. Given this, International Day of Women and Girls in Science showcases existing good practices and solutions for building more inclusive Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) ecosystems.
In support of this initiative, Teagasc is running a social media campaign featuring women working in science across various roles, showing the diversity of careers available to women in science at Teagasc.
Meet some of Teagasc’s women in science and find out about the work they do below:
Linda Omodara
Linda Omodara is a Research Officer working on AgNav, a free digital sustainability platform used by farmers across Ireland.
“AgNav helps farmers understand their farm’s greenhouse gas emissions using real, verified data, and shows practical ways to improve productivity while protecting the environment. My role is developing what’s called a life-cycle assessment model. This science turns farm data into meaningful climate insights,” Linda said.
Erin O’Rourke
As the Walsh Scholars Development Officer at Teagasc, Erin O’Rourke’s work strengthens PhD student training, development, and wellbeing on Teagasc’s Walsh Scholars Programme.
Erin talks about how she started her career as a researcher, with a PhD in Agri-Ecosystem Services, and has since worked in roles in science communication, public engagement and now doctoral education.
“For me, science isn’t just about discovery, it’s about how we support people, communicate knowledge and create inclusive environments, especially for women and girls,” Erin said.
Hui Xing
Lecturer Hui Xing (pictured above) works at Teagasc College of Amenity Horticulture in the National Botanic Gardens. Her work combines teaching botany and ecology to develop environmentally minded horticulturists.
“I teach Level 5, 6 and 7 horticulture students subjects including plant science, biodiversity, ecology and the environment, plant protection, and arboriculture. My role focuses on explaining the scientific principles that underpin horticultural practices and sustainable land management strategies,” Hui added.
Liz Duffy
As a Climate Action & Sustainability Advisor, for Teagasc’s Signpost Advisory Programme for the Cork East region, Liz Duffy works directly with farmers, helping them to achieve their climate targets.
“My role is to guide farmers and industry towards achieving climate targets through technical advice, sustainable practice implementation and strategic collaboration to ensure environmental resilience and long-term efficiency and profitability,” Liz said.
Show your support
Teagasc is running a social media campaign featuring more of our women working in science throughout the day. You can learn about their work on our social media platforms: Facebook; Instagram; LinkedIn or YouTube
For more information on International Day of Women and Girls in Science, visit the Teagasc website.
The above was prepared by David Vieira, Intern with the Science Communication and Engagement team in Teagasc.