Ilmac 2025 once again demonstrated how important exchange, new perspectives, and strong networks are for the future of the life sciences. With the “Women in Life Sciences” format, a special focus was set: a space for dialogue, inspiration, and concrete impulses to promote greater equality in the industry.

A Space for Exchange and New Perspectives

On September 17, 2025, experts, executives, and emerging talents gathered in Basel to discuss key challenges facing the industry. The focus was on topics such as the gender health gap and the persistent barriers for women in leadership positions—issues that not only shape individual career paths but also impact innovation and patient outcomes. The event made it clear: female perspectives are not a “nice-to-have,” but a crucial factor in advancing the life sciences.

From Insights to Concrete Solutions

The program combined in-depth expert input with personal experiences and interactive formats. Industry experts highlighted where structural action is needed and what progress has already been made. At the same time, discussions and hands-on sessions provided space to jointly develop solutions and define next steps. This combination of knowledge, exchange, and concrete approaches made the event particularly valuable for established leaders as well as for the next generation of talent.

Networks as Drivers of Change

A key element of “Women in Life Sciences” was personal exchange. During the closing networking apéro, new connections, ideas, and collaborations emerged, an important step, as lasting change is not driven by discussions alone, but by continuous collaboration. Especially in an industry that thrives on innovation, such networks are essential to enable long-term progress.

Embedded in the MCH Group’s Sustainability Strategy

The commitment behind “Women in Life Sciences” should not be viewed in isolation, but as part of a bigger picture: the initiative is anchored in the MCH Group’s 2025 Sustainability Report, underscoring the strategic importance of diversity, equal opportunities, and inclusive platforms within the group. This makes it clear that formats like this are not just individual events, but actively contribute to the sustainable development of the industry and society.

Read the full MCH Group Sustainability Report.

More Than a Side Event: A Clear Signal

As an integral part of the Ilmac program, “Women in Life Sciences” was deliberately positioned with high visibility. The message is clear: diversity and equality are key issues for the future of the industry and belong at the center of the conversation. Supported by strong partners from industry and research, a clear signal was sent: promoting women in the life sciences is a shared responsibility and an investment in the future.

Looking Ahead: Lausanne 2026

The positive feedback highlights the strong need for exchange, visibility, and structural change. Formats such as “Women in Life Sciences” help to actively drive this transformation and further strengthen Ilmac as a platform for innovation, networking, and socially relevant topics.

The format continues: “Women in Life Sciences” will return in Lausanne in 2026. On September 23, 2026, as part of Ilmac in Lausanne, a “Women in Life Sciences Afternoon” will take place. Once again, the focus will be on women in the industry, their perspectives, and their role in shaping the future of the life sciences. Stay tuned.

Further information and details will be published soon at www.ilmac.ch .

Impressions: Women in Life Sciences 2025