Climate change is one of the greatest challenges of our time. It requires urgent action from researchers, policymakers, and communities worldwide. Women are not just part of the response—they are leading it. Dr Sarah Boulter, Climate Adaptation Initiative Lead at the Climate Systems Hub, is one of the many driving positive change. Through their leadership and mentorship, women in climate science empower a more resilient future for all.
Breaking barriers
Dr Sarah Boulter, as a PhD student.
For many women in STEM, the path into environmental science is often marked by both passion and perseverance. Boulter’s journey into climate adaptation was not linear—she initially pursued law, then environmental science, focusing on biodiversity and ecosystems. It was an unexpected opportunity that saw her move to climate adaptation. Now, she works as an Associate Professor of Climate Adaptation at the University of Tasmania, addressing climate risks and supporting communities in building resilience to our changing climate.
Women like Professor Boulter are shaping the future of climate research and driving advancements in adaptation and resilience. Yet, systemic challenges remain. While she has been fortunate to have strong female mentors throughout her career, Boulter acknowledges that gender biases still persist in STEM fields. Boulter shared that, in her experience, women are often expected to take on roles associated with caregiving or emotional labour, even in professional settings. She highlights that it’s essential to notice these biases and call them out.
“Regardless of gender, it’s everyone’s role to be self-aware and self-reflect in your career and throughout your life,” Boulter explains. “We can change what future generations expect and lead meaningful change through the examples we set.”
Supporting the next generation
One of the most powerful ways to foster change is through mentorship. Boulter is deeply committed to guiding early-career researchers in navigating career challenges and developing their skills. The Climate College, a program she helped create, provides young professionals with the resources, networks, and confidence they need to excel in their fields of study.
Dr Sarah Boulter with early career researchers on the Climate College tour 2024.
Boulter understands the impact of mentorship firsthand because she has benefited from it herself. Now, she is determined to share that support and empower others. By creating opportunities for young women to take leadership roles and make independent decisions, she is empowering individuals and strengthening the broader field of climate adaptation.
Equality in STEM: A win for everyone
This year’s International Women’s Day theme—For ALL women and girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment—resonates deeply with Professor Boulter. She explains that although progress has been made, she worries about the risk of regression and emphasises that gender equality is not just about fairness for women; it benefits society as a whole.
“The reality is, equality benefits all genders,” Boulter stated. She refers to the example of men being given a greater opportunity to have a more substantial role in raising their children, calling it a win. More inclusive policies mean men are given more opportunities to take on caregiving roles, work-life balance improves, and ultimately, our workplaces and communities strengthen.
For climate science, this means breaking down barriers that have traditionally pointed women into lower-paid, “soft science” roles such as communications or knowledge brokering. These roles are critical for translating research into action. So why are they often undervalued? Boulter suggests that true equality in STEM must ensure that all contributions—whether in the lab, policy discussions, or community engagement—are recognised and compensated fairly.
Dr Sarah Boulter at the Climate Adaptation 2023 Conference.
Now is the time
Boulter’s final message is clear: “Get amongst it!” Climate change poses an existential threat, and we have only a small window to act. That means supporting a new generation of leaders—regardless of gender—who can drive research, policy, and adaptation efforts forward.
Her advice to empower young women aspiring to enter climate science? Seek strong mentors, challenge structural barriers, and, most importantly, believe in the value of their contributions. The future of climate adaptation depends on diverse voices, inclusive leadership, and a commitment to equality.
“As more women step into leadership roles, mentor others, and challenge societal norms, the impact will be far-reaching. By empowering the next generation of climate scientists, we are not just advancing gender equality but strengthening our collective ability to build a more resilient future,” shared Boulter.