Two special postage stamps celebrating the work of Women in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) and featuring two pioneering Irish scientists, Professor Jocelyn Bell Burnell, astrophysicist and Professor Aoife McLysaght, geneticist, have been unveiled by Minister James Lawless T.D., Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science.
Astrophysicist Bell Burnell discovered the first radio pulsars in 1967 and has studied the sky across almost the whole electromagnetic spectrum. Geneticist McLysaght is Chair of Evolutionary Genetics in Trinity College Dublin and one of the world’s leading genetics researchers. She was recently appointed to the role of Government Science Advisor. Both women are also exceptional in their advocacy for women in STEM and STEM communications.
The new stamps were issued ahead of International Women’s Day 2025 (8th March) late last week, An Post’s new stamps acknowledge the achievements of Women in STEM and the challenges. While women are leading the way in many areas of STEM they still represent only 25% of STEM jobs in Ireland. There is an even greater under-representation of women at senior executive level.
Women in STEM are connecting and advocating for themselves to provide inspiration and to promote role models for generations to come. With support from industry and Government, they are attracting and retaining more women to STEM careers and championing the importance of greater diversity in STEM. Professor Bell Burnell and Professor McLysaght are at the forefront of this work.
Designed by Detail Design agency, the stamps feature portraits of each woman by artist Steve Doogan alongside graphics representing their fields of expertise and achievements – a radio telescope and a classic double DNA helix with a diagram of the molecule.
The stamps and a limited edition First Day Cover envelope are available in selected post offices nationwide and online at www.anpost.com/shop
