Women in Science: Interview with Peer Reviewer Dr. Sarah McFall-Boegeman

11 Feb 2026 by Faye Holst Reviewer Sarah-McFall-Boegeman

What inspired you to pursue a career in science, and what continues to motivate you today?

I have always really loved getting to find out why something is taking place. It wasn’t always clear that I wanted to go into science, but what I found was that when I was younger, I had a lot of aspirations. I wanted to be an anaesthesiologist, I wanted to do forensics, I wanted to be a pharmacist, and there really was nothing that told me that I was going to end up as a scientist. Until I took a step back and I realized all of the underlying aspects of all of these career options were science related, in particular chemistry. Without chemistry, without science, I don’t think I would see the world the same way and I am continuously motivated to stay with science and pursue a career in science because of the why and just wanting to find out more. As a professor, the more I see students in class coming up with the “right” answer, I get excited to see their motivation and excitement that it clicked. I get to see them be happy and to see the spark and the curiosity that comes from science and just the pure love of figuring it out keeps me motivated.

What advice would you give to girls and women who are considering a future in science?

Advice I would give to girls and women who are considering a future in science would be that you need to have perseverance and don’t be afraid. If you are afraid to try something, if you are afraid to speak out if you are afraid to push past what you have already done, you won’t be able to get started. Push through that fear. Let it drive you. Going further than what you thought possible, showing others that you are more than they ever thought you could be, gives you power. So, my advice is to keep going, it looks hard it looks impossible, but keep going, keep trying.

What has been one of your proudest moments or most meaningful experiences in your scientific journey?

Some of my most meaningful experiences in my scientific journey are not ones of massive triumphs or of feeling ultra-accomplished. My proudest moments are of myself standing up to those that don’t think that I can contribute in the same ways that they can. Standing up for other women and girls that don’t feel like they have power. Using my voice to help others that need accommodations to just be on an equal playing field as others. My most meaningful experiences are the ones that have helped me grow as an individual, and as an advocate for others. I am proud of myself for using my voice and giving others space to do the same.

From your perspective, what actions by publishers—such as IOP Publishing—make the most meaningful difference in supporting women researchers and reviewers?

There is a lot that publishers do to help support authors when they are trying to get their research out and publish it. A lot of times you feel like you might not be seen or that your contributions might not be noticed. Women often do a lot of unseen work, but what I’ve noticed with IOP Publishing is that they’ve given me, as a woman, a voice that feels valued. They created a peer‑review course that has boosted my confidence in my ability to review papers and it’s helped me see myself as someone who is capable. Being someone who does science in any facet is already your way of saying that you are capable. Publishers are really helpful when they give that voice to those that aren’t always seen by everybody as being at the same level. I urge all publishers to not just have a one time a year women matter month. A lot of publishers have started to understand that women voices are needed in revolutionizing the science that is being done in so many fields. By standing up for women and helping women get published more often they are essentially helping other women feel like they can do it too.