Dr Shara Cohen: STEM Advocate & Cancer Care Leader

Dr. Shara Cohen: Healthcare Leader and
Advocate for Women in STEM

Dr. Shara Cohen is an award-winning scientist, entrepreneur, and advocate dedicated to improving cancer care and advancing gender equity in STEM. With a background in cancer research and over 100 peer-reviewed publications, Dr. Cohen transitioned from academia to entrepreneurship, founding Euroscicon Ltd, a life science communications company. After selling the company, she launched Cancer Care Parcel, a business providing care packages to cancer patients, drawing from her own experience with breast cancer.

In 2005, Shara founded Mums in Science, an organization supporting women balancing STEM careers and motherhood. Her advocacy and leadership in healthcare and science earned her the British Empire Medal (BEM) in 2024 for services to women in STEM and cancer patients.

Dr. Shara Cohen is a distinguished leader whose career straddles the worlds of science, healthcare, and entrepreneurship. Known for her significant contributions to cancer care, immunology, and women in STEM, Dr. Cohen’s journey is one of passion, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to improving the lives of others.

From Research to Entrepreneurship: Pioneering Positive Change

Dr. Shara Cohen’s journey began as a research scientist, where her deep love for science and inquiry guided her through over 100 peer-reviewed publications. Her early career was marked by her work in cancer research, immunology, and stem cell transplantation, areas where she became a well-respected voice. However, in 2000, Shara embarked on an unexpected journey into entrepreneurship, founding Euroscicon Ltd, a life science communications company that bridged the gap between academia, clinical practice, and industry. This company became a global platform for scientific collaboration before she sold it in 2016.

This transition was driven by a desire to create meaningful dialogue and solutions across sectors. “I saw a need to bring different scientific communities together to collaborate,” she shares. “Euroscicon allowed me to foster conversations that led to breakthroughs in research and treatment.” But her entrepreneurial ventures were far from over.

Personal Adversity Leading to a New Mission: Cancer Care Parcel

In 2013, Shara was diagnosed with breast cancer, a life-altering moment that redirected her focus. During treatment, she realized that cancer patients lacked the practical, emotional, and mental support needed to navigate their challenges. Drawing from her own experiences, she founded Cancer Care Parcel in 2017, which delivers thoughtful care packages to individuals affected by cancer. The mission of Cancer Care Parcel is simple but impactful: providing comfort and reassurance to cancer patients, survivors, and their families.

Shara’s personal journey with cancer gave her insight into the small but powerful ways in which cancer care can be enhanced. “I wanted to create something that helped people feel less alone,” she explains. Her leadership ensures that each package is filled with products that cater to the needs of patients, from comfort items to tools that promote well-being during treatment.

Advocating for Women in STEM: Mums in Science

A fierce advocate for gender equity, Dr. Cohen has also devoted her efforts to addressing the challenges faced by women in science. In 2005, she founded Mums in Science, an organization that supports women balancing a career in science with motherhood. Many women leave the STEM field due to difficulties in managing the demands of their career and family life. Mums in Science seeks to change that by providing resources, mentorship, and community for women to thrive in both their professional and personal lives.

Over the years, Mums in Science has become a platform where women can connect, find support, and share strategies for success. “We need more women in STEM,” says Dr. Cohen. “But we also need to ensure that the system supports them at all stages of their careers.” Shara’s advocacy work has earned her widespread recognition, culminating in her receiving the British Empire Medal (BEM) in 2024 for her commitment to women in STEM and cancer patients.

A Lifetime of Leadership and Impact

Dr. Cohen’s influence extends beyond her businesses. As a Chair, Non-Executive Director, and CEO, she has served in multiple leadership roles across various organizations, using her extensive knowledge and experience to guide them through transformative milestones. Her boardroom leadership reflects her scientific and business acumen, particularly in governance, strategy, and innovation.

Shara’s commitment to continuous learning is a hallmark of her career. Her work with Cancer Care Parcel and Mums in Science reflects her belief that businesses can—and should—make a positive social impact. “My goal has always been to contribute to the well-being of others, whether through science or business,” she says. “These two worlds are not separate; they complement each other.”

Making a Lasting Difference

From pioneering scientific communication to supporting cancer patients and advocating for women in STEM, Dr. Shara Cohen’s journey is a testament to resilience, vision, and leadership. Her ability to leverage her scientific expertise, entrepreneurial skills, and personal experiences to drive meaningful change has positioned her as a leader at the intersection of healthcare and science. With her ongoing work in Cancer Care Parcel and Mums in Science, Dr. Cohen continues to make a lasting impact on communities around the world.

Q&A with Dr. Shara Cohen: Insights on Cancer Care, STEM Advocacy, and Entrepreneurship

Q: What inspired you to transition from academia to entrepreneurship?
A: I’ve always had a passion for bridging gaps between different fields. While working in academia, I saw a need for better communication between researchers, clinicians, and industry leaders. That’s what led me to create Euroscicon Ltd—an opportunity to foster collaboration and dialogue that could drive meaningful scientific advancements.

Q: How did your personal experience with cancer influence the creation of Cancer Care Parcel?
A: After my breast cancer diagnosis, I realized that many cancer patients lack practical support during their journey. The small comforts can make a huge difference, which is why I founded Cancer Care Parcel. I wanted to provide a resource that would offer reassurance and comfort, knowing firsthand how valuable that can be during treatment.

Q: What are the biggest challenges for women balancing STEM careers and family life?
A: One of the most significant challenges is the lack of support systems in place. Many women feel they have to choose between their careers and motherhood. Mums in Science was founded to offer community and mentorship to women in STEM, helping them navigate these challenges without feeling isolated or discouraged.

Q: How do you see the role of women in STEM evolving over the next decade?
A: I believe we’re moving towards a more inclusive environment, but we still have a long way to go. The more we advocate for policies that support women—whether through flexible working arrangements or mentorship programs—the more we’ll see women thriving in these fields. I’m optimistic about the future, but it requires continuous effort from all sectors.

Q: What advice would you give to young women entering STEM today?
A: Be persistent and don’t be afraid to ask for help. It’s important to surround yourself with mentors and peers who support your journey. STEM can be challenging, but if you’re passionate and willing to learn, you can succeed. And don’t let anyone tell you that you have to choose between a career and having a family—there are ways to balance both.