Celebrating the Women in Science Driving Our Work Forward

It’s the International Day of Women and Girls in Science – a day to highlight the contributions of women in science and technology and strive towards equal access to science for women. At Nature’s SAFE, where our core team is predominantly female, we’d like to take this opportunity to highlight some of the women whose scientific expertise is driving our mission forward.

Let’s introduce you to the team that keeps our wildlife biobank running.

Gráinne Hartigan: Furthering Conservation through Collaboration

As our Zoo Liaison, Gráinne Hartigan forms collaborative relationships with zoos that choose to bank their biological samples with us. Gráinne is a zoologist by training, having earned her undergraduate degree in Zoology from the University of Liverpool, and a qualified teacher with almost 20 years of experience teaching Biology, Ecology, and Animal Management courses. At Nature’s SAFE, Gráinne uses her background in zoology and passion for building collaborative relationships to help our partner zoos reach their conservation goals.

While working at Nature’s SAFE, Gráinne continues to further her education by pursuing an MSc in Animal Behaviour at the University of Chester.

Her advice to aspiring women in STEM? “Stay curious.”

“I have always been fascinated by science—especially the natural world—and have dedicated much of my career to understanding how we can live more sustainably. Along the way, I’ve worked with truly inspirational women whose talent and dedication are shaping the future of conservation and STEM.

Women in Science Day is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate their impact—not just in scientific discovery but in driving real change for our planet. To all aspiring women in STEM: your voice, curiosity, and determination have the power to shape the future. Be bold, stay curious, and be a force for change!”

Lucy Morgan: Advancing Cryopreservation for Wildlife

Lucy Morgan is a specialist in animal biological sample cryopreservation. She serves as Scientific Advisor and head of our scientific committee at Nature’s SAFE.

Her journey in science began in 2017 at Stallion AI Services, where she specialized in equine semen cryopreservation. Recognizing the growing demand for rare breed preservation, she founded Gemini Genetics—a company dedicated to domestic animal genetic preservation. Now, at Nature’s SAFE, Lucy applies her expertise to ensure the highest standards in genetic preservation and lead the development of regenerative cryopreservation techniques alongside our scientific committee.

Pamela Humphreys: Solving the Preservation Puzzle

Pamela Humphreys has been working on semen preservation technology for 14 years. In addition to being the Lab Manager at Stallion AI, she supports Nature’s SAFE with multi-species semen preservation, applying her expertise to enhance our conservation strategy.

Pam’s journey into science is a testament to the value of alternative career pathways. Initially stepping into her role at Stallion AI without a formal science background, she has built a wealth of knowledge through hands-on experience. Today, she is an invaluable resource to our charity, bringing problem-solving skills and technical innovation to our work.

“One of the biggest challenges I face is determining the optimal media for freezing semen and figuring out the best methods for semen recovery. It’s a real puzzle, but one I truly enjoy solving!”

Megan Groves: A Passion for Genetic Research

Megan Groves plays a vital role in sample processing and data handling at Nature’s SAFE. She enjoys being able to work alongside the charity to preserve samples from endangered species.

As a Biomedical Genetics student at Newcastle University, Megan has explored multiple research fields, including leading a project on 3D printing neonatal heart models in Texas before joining Gemini Genetics as a technician.

Her passion for scientific discovery is matched by her advocacy for women in research:

“Recognizing and celebrating women’s contributions to science is essential—not only to honour their achievements but also to inspire girls everywhere to pursue careers in scientific fields.”

Lydia Keeping: Supporting the Future of Cryopreservation

Lydia Keeping brings her expertise in bioveterinary science to our lab, where she plays a key role in sample processing and data handling. After graduating from her degree in Bioveterinary Science from Harper Adams University in 2023, she joined Gemini Genetics in early 2024 and now also supports the work of Nature’s SAFE.

As an animal lover with a horse and two cats of her own, Lydia understands the special ways in which animals shape our lives. She is eager to expand her knowledge of cryopreservation techniques and cutting-edge technologies that will shape the future of genetic preservation.

Why We Celebrate Women in Science

As we celebrate International Women and Girls in Science Day, we recognize the importance of amplifying the voices of women in STEM and inspiring the next generation of young scientists.

International Women and Girls in Science Day serves as a global platform to encourage policies and initiatives that support gender equality in science education and research. By showcasing role models and creating opportunities for women in STEM, we can work towards a future where women and girls have an equal voice in shaping the future of science.

These are just some of the women driving forward scientific progress at our organisation – our Scientific Committee and Board of Trustees is home to even more.

Our message to all aspiring women in science: the future is yours to shape. Stay curious, be bold, and continue breaking barriers.