The inaugural Empower Women in MOFs and Beyond conference convened this month in Mexico City and Mérida, uniting scientists, engineers, and industry partners from around the world to promote equity, visibility, and leadership for women in materials chemistry.
Professor Katherine Mirica delivered a keynote address, “Framing the Future: A Blueprint for Empowerment,” where she discussed structural barriers in scientific careers, key milestones in gender equity, and practical strategies for building more inclusive and accountable research environments. Her talk sparked wide engagement and meaningful dialogue on leadership, mentorship, and institutional culture within the MOF and COF communities.
The conference also highlighted recent advances in metal–organic frameworks, covalent organic frameworks, and related porous materials, with sessions spanning fundamental science, emerging applications, publishing, and translational technologies. Future Empower initiatives are already in development to strengthen global networks, expand representation in leadership, and support the next generation of diverse researchers. Further details are available on the Empower conference website: https://www.ewmb.com.mx/