Women in STEM- Breaking the glass ceiling | Dr Gule Saman

We spoke to Dr Gule Saman, Associate Professor in the School of Engineering and Physical Sciences at Heriot-Watt University, Co-Programme Director of the Data Science Graduate Apprenticeship, and Co-Lead of the HWU STEM Inclusivity Network, about the experiences of women in STEM, the structural barriers that continue to shape progression, and what it really takes to break the glass ceiling.

Drawing on her own journey through engineering, Data Science and academia, Gule reflects on when she first became aware of the structural barriers facing women in STEM, why representation on its own is not enough, and what meaningful equity should look like beyond symbolic action.

The conversation also explores the importance of visible role models, community networks and peer support, particularly in helping women develop a sense of belonging and progress in spaces where they remain underrepresented. Gule shares her perspective on building authority while remaining authentic, and considers how teaching, active learning and student wellbeing can make technical disciplines more accessible.

In this episode, we explore:

• Gule’s journey into engineering, Data Science and academia.
• The structural barriers women can face when entering and progressing in STEM.
• What “breaking the glass ceiling” should look like in practice, beyond symbolic action.
• The role of diverse and visible role models in shaping belonging and ambition.
• How community networks and peer support can help retain and advance women in STEM.
• What gives Gule hope for the next generation of women entering STEM.

Guest: Dr Gule Saman, Associate Professor, School of Engineering and Physical Sciences, Heriot-Watt University; Co-Programme Director, Data Science Graduate Apprenticeship; Co-Lead, HWU STEM Inclusivity Network

Host: Dr Sayema Rahman Khan, Founder of SAWHE

Producer: Sumaiya Motara, SAWHE Digital Communications Lead

About the SAWHE Network

The South Asian Women in Higher Education Network (SAWHE) is a grassroots, community-led initiative dedicated to amplifying the visibility, voice and leadership of South Asian women across UK universities.

We exist so that South Asian women are never alone in their higher education journey — offering an inclusive space to connect, be supported and be celebrated.

Website: https://sawhe.org/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/south-asian-women-in-higher-education-network/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sawheofficial/ Join the network: https://docs.google.com/forms/u/1/d/e/1FAIpQLSc8Gy_HKfUNmdW-HFEh29A3pPOHC8Qe44tdvEoHJGJgx7zn-w/viewform