About AWIS San Francisco

The Association for Women in Science (AWIS) is a national organization dedicated to achieving equity and full participation of women in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Since its founding in 1971, AWIS has served as a network, a resource, and a voice for women in STEM.

Our mission is simple yet powerful: to advance equity and full participation of women in STEM by fostering community, leadership, and advocacy.

We are so excited to relaunch the AWIS San Francisco chapter and invite you to help us build a vibrant community that empowers women in science across the Bay Area.

Our vision is to create a chapter that focuses on:

  • Networking & Mentorship – Connecting professionals at all career stages to foster growth and collaboration.

  • Outreach & Advocacy – Promoting STEM opportunities and championing equity in science.

  • Leadership Development – Offering hands-on opportunities to lead committees and shape impactful programs.

AWIS-SF is a volunteer-driven organization, and your involvement is key to our success. Joining a committee is a great way to gain leadership experience, expand your professional network, and make a meaningful impact in the community.

Whether you’re a student, early-career professional, or established leader, AWIS-SF offers opportunities to:

  • Organize events and programs.

  • Mentor and support future and current scientists.

  • Advocate for diversity and inclusion in STEM.

Together, we can create a strong, supportive network in the Bay Area that advances women in science and inspires the next generation.

Empowering Women. Transforming Science.

  • Our Mission

    To ensure that all women in STEM can achieve their full potential.

  • Our Vision

    To be the voice for driving change and equity for all women in science.

  • Core Values

    EQUITY – ENABLEMENT – INCLUSION – RECOGNITION -- TRANSFORMATION

Meet our AWIS SF Board Members

  • A woman with long dark hair smiling outdoors against a mountainous landscape with snow-capped peaks.

    Laharika Katamoni

    President president@awis-sf.org

    Lahari is an R&D Scientist with proven expertise in molecular biology, immunology, neurosciences and biotechnology.

    As President of the AWIS San Francisco Chapter, Lahari oversees chapter operations and guides chapter initiatives that foster connection, visibility, and growth for women in STEM. She works closely with the board to shape inclusive programming, foster collaboration, and build lasting connections with local organizations and institutions. She also represents the chapter in broader AWIS initiatives, helping align local efforts with national goals.

    Under her leadership, the AWIS-SF Chapter has relaunched with a focus on mentorship, professional development, and partnerships that highlight women’s contributions to science and technology across the Bay Area. With her passion for advocacy and collaboration, Lahari fosters a community where women in STEM can learn, lead, and innovate together.

  • A confident woman with wavy brown hair smiling on a city sidewalk.

    Amaris Guerra

    Secretary secretary@awis-sf.org

    Amaris is a biochemist and project management professional dedicated to building communities that empower women in science.

    As Secretary of the AWIS San Francisco Chapter, Amaris supports chapter operations through strategic communication, event coordination, and member outreach that expands the chapter’s visibility across the Bay Area. She helps organize impactful programming, supports internal processes that keep the chapter running smoothly, and leads mentoring initiatives that cultivate growth and meaningful connection among members.

    With a passion for optimization and collaboration, Amaris develops systems and spaces where women in STEM can thrive by streamlining processes and creating opportinities that drive lasting impact.

  • Julia Maya

    Treasurer treasurer@awis-sf.org

    Julia is a Quality Control professional who brings scientific rigor and operational excellence to her work in the biopharmaceutical industry.

    As Treasurer of the AWIS San Francisco Chapter, Julia oversees chapter finances to ensure responsible and transparent stewardship of funds. She helps sustain and grow chapter programming by leading fundraising efforts, identifying sponsorship opportunities, and supporting strategic planning around resource development. Julia also collaborates with the board to align financial decisions with the chapter’s mission and long term goals.

    Julia is passionate about advancing women in science and leverages her analytical and creative strengths to promote sustainable growth and build meaningful connections.