04 Mar 2025
Blog
Empowered by science: How research and technology can drive change
This year’s International Women’s Day theme, For ALL women and girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment (#ForAllWomenAndGirls), speaks to me deeply. It’s about ensuring that every woman, no matter her background, has the opportunity to grow, create and make a meaningful impact.
Empowerment comes in many forms, and for me, it has come through science, technology and access to information. As a PhD researcher in Earth Science, I work on mapping climate change effects and modelling future trends in Kazakhstan.
Climatology in action
Using Earth observation data – including fifth generation ECMWF https://www.ecmwf.int/en/forecasts/dataset/ecmwf-reanalysis-v5 (ERA5), Coupled Model Intercomparison Project 6 (CMIP6) ensemble data, Google Earth Engine, and meteorological records – I analyse past and future climate patterns to better understand environmental risks and changes.
One of the tools I have developed is an application that generates so-called Köppen climate maps (maps that classify climates based on temperature and precipitation patterns) on-the-fly, providing a fast and accessible way to visualise climate shifts. These maps can be used in universities to teach climate data interpretation and support decision-making by identifying regions at risk, helping to develop adaptation and mitigation strategies.
With limited studies focusing on climate change impacts in Kazakhstan, my research aims to bridge this gap and provide valuable insights for the future.
Science opens doors
Beyond research, science has opened many doors for me. It has given me the chance to connect with experts, work on meaningful projects and be exposed to opportunities I never imagined. It has shaped the way I see the world, helping me grow both professionally and personally.
That’s why I believe that access to knowledge, innovation and opportunities can empower women and girls to take action and create change in their own fields.
This Saturday, on International Women’s Day 2025, I invite you to to a webinar: Stories of how women have been empowered through use of Earth observations.
There, I will share more about my journey and the ways in which science, Earth observations and technology can be tools for empowerment. Join us to explore how learning, discovery and innovation can shape a better future for all.
