As we celebrate the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, we recognise women who are making a difference through their expertise, leadership, and commitment to progress.
Dr Ott is a South African sustainability expert and environmental leader with a strong background in zoology and ecology. She holds a BSc and BScHons in Zoology from Nelson Mandela University and was awarded the Nelson Mandela University Alumni Achiever Award in 2020. She began her career as an ecologist at Rio Tinto’s Richards Bay Minerals, leading land rehabilitation and biodiversity initiatives, and later held senior environmental roles.
She currently serves as Chief Advisor for Nature Solutions at Rio Tinto, focusing on sustainable land use, biodiversity conservation, and nature-based solutions. She is a respected voice in global sustainability leadership.
1. What first sparked your interest in pursuing a career in science?
My parents loved South Africa’s nature. Even in our backyard on the East Rand, I was encouraged to play outside, get my hands dirty in the garden, and identify birds. We hiked and camped across southern Africa. At school, I ran the Enviro Club, and by high school I knew I wanted to pursue the natural sciences if I was going to help “save the world.”
2. What’s something you wish students better understood about working in this field?
Natural sciences is far broader than many imagine. If you don’t like being in the sun or handling wildlife, that’s fine! We need data scientists, lab technicians, soil scientists, remote sensing analysts, and programme managers - roles that support understanding and protecting the natural world from behind a desk or in a lab. I learned my role was not to help ‘save the world’ but to help save people from ourselves - nature would survive without us, but we wouldn’t survive without nature.
3. What’s the best piece of career advice you’ve ever received?
Two things: 1. Develop and use a 90-day plan every time you start something new. 2. Stay true to your mission and values - your energy comes from your passion.
4. What’s a common myth about women in science you would love to debunk?
That fewer women are naturally drawn to STEM. This isn’t “natural” but a result of social conditioning, including how girls and boys are raised, the games they play, and the toys they receive. STEM has often been stereotypically associated with masculine traits, despite being compatible with all genders.
5. What message would you like to share with young females considering a future in STEM?
STEM is vast, with careers beyond what you can imagine. Pursuing a BSc is like opening a door to a castle with hundreds of rooms, each representing a field of study full of possibilities. That key can unlock the future of humanity.
As we celebrate women and girls in science, let Dr Theresia Ott’s journey inspire you to explore, question, and pursue your passion in STEM. Step into your own castle of possibilities, embrace curiosity, and help shape a sustainable future - because the next breakthrough could come from you.