Our second event in our CamSocTalks series featured renowned speaker Dr. Patricia Fara – a distinguished historian of science and Emeritus Fellow of Clare College, Cambridge. 40 of us met on the 8th floor at The Orchard where Dr. Fara illuminated the significant contributions of women in various scientific roles during World War I, challenging traditional gender biases. She highlighted the achievements of pioneering female scientists, doctors, and engineers from Cambridge who demonstrated their capabilities in roles traditionally reserved for men. Despite facing sexism upon the return of men after the war, the remarkable efforts of these women left a lasting impact. Dr. Fara drew attention to individuals like Hertha Ayrton, whose innovations, including the Ayrton fan used to dispel poison gas in the trenches, underscored the vital role played by women in wartime advancements. Attendees were treated to a Q&A session at the end followed by an opportunity to socialise with fellow alumni over a few drinks in the adjacent bar. We look forward to the next one!
Organised by Tim Murphy