Welcome to another edition of STEM Demystified, a project to tackle the under-representation of women in STEM. This weekly Newsletter showcases how women are conquering science, technology, engineering, and mathematics worldwide.
Today, the spotlight is shining on Dr Clara Cheung, a visionary STEM professional whose interdisciplinary journey exemplifies innovation and resilience. Born in Hong Kong and initially pursuing a career in business, Dr Cheun transitioned into the manufacturing industry, where her expertise in data analytics and process optimisation uncovered critical links between workplace safety and design flaws. This discovery sparked a profound career pivot into civil engineering, leading to an MSc and PhD at the University of Maryland.
Now an award-winning academic and industry leader, Dr Cheung holds dual roles as Group Lead in Engineering Management at the University of Manchester and Platform Lead Safety Digital at the Thomas Ashton Institute. In 2023, her pioneering contributions to occupational health and safety earned her recognition as one of the Top 50 Women in Engineering for Safety and Security. Let’s dive into her inspiring journey to learn how she redefined her path in STEM and became a trailblazer in her field.
What was your trajectory from school to where you currently are professionally/academically?
My career trajectory has been shaped by a commitment to interdisciplinary and international research, with a focus on addressing workplace health and safety challenges in high-risk industries. My research integrates organisational psychology, computer science, and engineering to develop solutions that improve safety standards, particularly in sectors like construction. With over 20 years of international experience in countries including Australia, China, Japan, India, the UK, and the USA, I lead funded projects that promote cross-border collaborations and evidence-based approaches to tackle global workplace health and safety issues.
What motivated you to get into STEM? Did you have a female role model or anyone who inspired you? If so, who?
I made an unconventional shift from business to STEM, driven by my desire to take on the challenge of solving complex problems through a technical and interdisciplinary approach. While many move from STEM to business, I took the opposite path, using my business background to bring a unique perspective to engineering solutions for health and safety. My international experiences broadened my outlook, inspiring me to advocate for more inclusive and collaborative approaches to tackle global health and safety challenges.
What’s your most important professional/academic achievement?
My most significant professional achievement is being named one of the Top 50 Women in Engineering for Safety and Security by the Women’s Engineering Society in 2023, acknowledging my impact on occupational health and safety in high-risk industries through interdisciplinary research. My career at the University of Manchester includes senior leadership roles, such as Faculty of Science and Engineering – Head of Internationalisation for ASEAN, Japan, and South Korea in 2022, Deputy Head of Research for the School of Engineering in 2023, and Group Lead for Engineering Management for the Department of Civil Engineering and Management in 2024. These appointments reflect my influence in driving research and international collaboration at the University of Manchester.
Did you face any challenge throughout your professional/academic journey? How did you overcome it?
I faced challenges when transitioning from a business background to STEM, an unconventional path that required me to learn civil engineering. I tackled these challenges with a positive mindset, viewing them as opportunities for growth, and embraced my interdisciplinary approach by integrating business skills with engineering knowledge. This unique blend enabled me to address complex health and safety issues in innovative ways. Additionally, navigating leadership roles across different cultural and international contexts presented its own challenges, which I overcame by fostering inclusive collaboration, valuing diverse perspectives, and championing interdisciplinary and cross-border research.
In your opinion, what needs to be done to attract more women into STEM?
To attract more women into STEM, it’s crucial to create an inclusive environment where they feel supported and valued. This involves increasing the visibility of female role models, providing mentorship and networking opportunities, and addressing gender biases that may discourage women from pursuing STEM careers. Early exposure to STEM subjects in schools, alongside hands-on experiences, can spark interest. Additionally, policies that support work-life balance and career development can help retain women in STEM fields, making these careers more accessible and appealing.
What advice would you give to anyone looking into a career in STEM (or those who do not consider it)?
For anyone considering a career in STEM, my advice is to stay curious and embrace challenges. STEM fields offer a variety of paths where you can make a real impact, whether through solving complex problems or driving innovation. Don’t be discouraged by stereotypes; bring your unique perspective to the table. For those not considering STEM, I encourage exploring it with an open mind—you may find it more rewarding than expected. Seek mentors, stay persistent, and view setbacks as learning opportunities that can propel you forward.
Dr Clara Cheung’s story is a wonderful example of how determination, curiosity, and the courage to take unique paths can lead to incredible outcomes. From identifying design-driven safety challenges to becoming a leader in engineering research, Dr Cheun exemplifies how diverse perspectives, and interdisciplinary approaches enrich STEM fields.
As Dr Cheung continues to lead impactful research, mentor future engineers, and advocate for safer and more inclusive workplaces, she reinforces the message that no career path is linear – and that the courage to pivot can lead to remarkable achievements.
