Breaking Barriers: TUMCREATE Researcher Dr Resshaya Murukesu on Accelerating Action for Women in STEM

07.03.2025

 

Women make up less than 30% of the global STEM workforce¹, a statistic that highlights persistent gender biases in the field. Navigating a male-dominated industry as a woman in STEM comes with challenges, but for TUMCREATE Research Fellow, Dr Resshaya Murukesu, it fuels a deeper purpose. It is to positively influence the healthy behaviour of older people through health solutions via research. 

Besides the importance of advocating for equal opportunities, “mentorship, support, and ensuring that every woman in research and science feels seen, valued, and encouraged to pursue her ambitions with confidence is needed too,” says Resshaya, reflecting on this year’s International Women’s Day theme, ‘accelerate action’. 

Transitioning from clinical work to research  

“My journey as an ageing health scientist hasn’t always been linear,” shares the mother of one who holds a PhD in Health Sciences from the National University of Malaysia. 

“Transitioning from clinical work to research was a leap, and stepping into a leadership role brought its own set of challenges and opportunities. However, every challenge has reinforced my passion for creating solutions that are effective and accessible to people from all walks of life.” 

One of the highlights of Resshaya’s research journey is leading the LightSPAN research project in Singapore, which explores how light exposure can be optimised to support health and boost resilience in ageing.  

"We investigate how personalised light-based interventions can optimise circadian health, improve mood, and enhance cognitive function in older adults. It’s really interesting to be working on this novel approach that has the potential to reshape how we think about ageing, offering a simple yet scientifically grounded way to support well-being through something as fundamental as light,” she says. 

Although her background is in physiotherapy, the drive to make a greater impact led her into the world of research. 

“What resonated with me the most as a physiotherapist was the ability to enhance people’s quality of life. I realised that my passion lies in ensuring people not only live longer but also enjoy a fulfilling life with preserved independence. This led me to deepen my knowledge in health promotion and explore strategies that foster resilience in sustainable and accessible ways — leveraging existing resources and abilities rather than relying on complex interventions,” she continues. 

Stepping to leadership and overcoming self-doubts 

Her transition to leading a research team has been a learning curve. Like many people in leadership roles, she encountered imposter syndrome and often questioned her ability to lead a talented team. However, through the unwavering support and trust of her project’s Principal Investigator, Prof Manuel Spitschan, and team members, she found the confidence to grow into her role. 

“I’ve learnt that leadership isn’t about taking centre stage,” she says.

“It’s about ensuring that every voice is heard, every skill is valued, and everyone moves forward together. Just like an orchestra, with each individual playing their part, and together, we can create something truly remarkable.” 

Challenging assumptions 

As Resshaya continues to thrive in the academic environment, she is determined to challenge assumptions that often limit women’s progress in STEM. One of the biggest assumptions she aims to change is the belief that women must choose between career and family. 

“I am grateful to work in an environment where having a family is seen as part of who I am, not a limitation,” says Resshaya. “I’ve witnessed how women with children are sometimes questioned or overlooked. Women should never have to prove their dedication simply because they also nurture a family. We can thrive in both roles, by defining balance in a way that works for us.” 

She also pushes back against the notion that women must be aggressive to succeed in leadership roles.  

“There is power in collaboration, in empathy, in thoughtful decision-making,” she adds. “Being kind doesn’t mean being passive. Women can lead with strength and compassion, make tough decisions, and set firm boundaries, all while uplifting those around them,” she continues.

Women Who Inspire 

Resshaya looks up to everyday figures that walk beside her as a source of inspiration. These female figures include her mother, sisters, friends, and colleagues who have shown her the power of quiet determination, the beauty of unwavering support, and the importance of showing up for one another. 

One word of advice she would like to share with all women in STEM is: “Be fearless. Be brave. Ask the questions that need to be asked; your curiosity and voice matter. Strength in STEM isn’t about fitting into a mould or becoming what you think a scientist 'should' look or sound like. It’s about embracing your unique perspective and letting that drive innovation and discovery.”