Particle Physics Masterclasses for the International Day of Women and Girls in Science

TL;DR

This paper describes the organization of international Masterclasses on particle physics for girls, promoting gender diversity in science through data analysis and interaction with female scientists at CERN.

Contribution

It reports on a series of global outreach events aimed at increasing girls' engagement in particle physics and showcasing female role models in science.

Findings

Approximately 300 girls participated in the Masterclasses.

Girls analyzed LHC data under female scientists' guidance.

Video conferences with CERN facilitated direct interaction with women scientists.

Abstract

On the occasion of the UN International Day of Women and Girls in Science (February 11) Masterclass activities were launched by the International Particle Physics Outreach Group to support and promote the access of women and girls to science education and research activities. Universities and research laboratories organised 10 Masterclasses for girls on February 10 and 11, with participation from Barcelona, Cagliari, Cosenza, Heidelberg, Madrid, Paris, Prague, Rio de Janeiro, and Sao Paulo. About 300 girls participated in the events and analysed LHC data while being tutored by female scientists. Three video conferences with CERN were held where the girls could talk to CERN women scientists and learn about the careers of these role models.