FemTech is a research-based initiative for increasing diversity within computer science education. In this talk, Professor Bjorn will reflect upon the insights and results arriving from FemTech research at the Department of Computer Science, since it was initiated in 2016. This will include how and why humor matters, the historic invisible women in gaming, and how the continued focus on small institutional interventions are critical. Finally, the talk will introduce the current focus, namely how changing the narrative on computer science includes reflections on the intersection between gender and neurodiversity.

Pernille Bjørn is ACM Distinguished member and professor at the Department of Computer Science, University of Copenhagen, Denmark (DIKU). Professor Bjørn’s research is centred within the area of Computer Supported Cooperative Work (CSCW), studying cooperative practices to design cooperative technologies. Professor Bjørn is most known for research on distributed work (e.g., global software development), large information systems (e.g., healthcare systems), and tech entrepreneurship in global south (India, Philippines, and Palestine). Currently, Professor Bjørn research interest focuses on Hybrid Work, Cooperative Virtual Reality, and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, bridging gender and neurodiversity.