INTERNATIONAL AWARDS 2020 - Fondation L'Oréal
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2020 INTERNATIONAL AWARDS
ABOUT P.4
JEAN-PAUL AGON’S EDITORIAL P.7
AUDREY AZOULAY’S EDITORIAL P.9
FOCUS P.13
THE 2020 LAUREATES P.17
Professor Abla Mehio Sibai P.18
Laureate for Africa and the Arab States
Doctor Firdausi Qadri P.20
Laureate for Asia-Pacific
Professor Edith Heard, FRS P.22
Laureate for Europe
Professor Esperanza Martínez-Romero P.24
Laureate for Latin America
Professor Kristi Anseth P.26
SUMMARY
Laureate for North America
THE 2020 INTERNATIONAL RISING TALENTS P.29
A RIGOROUS SELECTION PROCESS P.39
3
ABOUT THE ABOUT
Fondation L’Oréal UNESCO
The Fondation L’Oréal works to support women Since its creation in 1945, UNESCO, the United Nations
across the world, helping them to fulfil their potential Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization,
in two major areas that sit at the heart of the Group’s has worked to create the conditions for dialogue
DNA: scientific research and inclusive beauty. among civilizations, cultures and peoples, based upon
respect for commonly shared values. UNESCO’s
E st a b l i s h e d i n 1 9 9 8 a n d m a n a g e d by t h e
mission is to contribute to the building of peace,
Fondation L’Oréal in partnership with UNESCO,
poverty reduction, sustainable development and
the For Women in Science programme seeks
intercultural dialogue through its unique competencies
to improve the representation of women in scientific
in education, the sciences, culture, communication and
careers, strong in the conviction that the world
information. The Organization focuses, in particular, on
needs science, and science needs women. Over the
two global priorities: Africa and Gender Equality.
past 22 years, the programme has supported and
raised the profile of more than 3,400 researchers UNESCO is the only United Nations specialized agency
from 118 countries. with a specific mandate for Science, symbolized by the
‘S’ in the acronym. Through its natural sciences
Convinced that beauty is at the core of the process of
programmes, UNESCO contributes to the overall
reconstructing lives and an important element of social
implementation of the United Nations Sustainable
inclusion, the Fondation L’Oréal also develops
Development Goals by providing policy assistance to
outstanding free training in beauty professions for
support developing countries in strengthening their
people from vulnerable backgrounds. The Fondation
scientific and technological capacity, and to help
also provides access to beauty and wellness
Member States design effective policies including local
treatments in medical and social settings, supporting
and indigenous knowledge systems. UNESCO is a
people undergoing physical, psychological or social
driving force to advance scientific research and
suffering, as well as reconstructive surgery.
expertise in the developing world, and leads several
intergovernmental programmes for the sustainable
management of freshwater, ocean and terrestrial
resources, for biodiversity protection, and to promote
science’s role in combatting climate change and in
disaster risk reduction.
Together with its national and regional offices around
the world, UNESCO supports international scientific
cooperation and works with a wide range of partners
at global, regional and national levels. By joining
forces with its partners, UNESCO can leverage
resources, expertise and competencies to promote all
its ideals and values and to strengthen the visibility
and impact of its action in all areas where the
Organization has leadership, recognized expertise and
comparative advantage.
4 5
Gender diversity
leads to new and
better quality science
At a global level, we collectively face major challenges
– climate change, biodiversity loss, health risks…
These challenges facing humanity are unprecedented
in scale. It is clear that science is and will be one of the
keys that enable us to address them, as it always has
been at important moments in history. However, while
it seems just as clear that we must act collectively to
© Thomas Gogny - Divergence - L’Oréal
resolve them, women continue to experience
considerable obstacles, which prevent them from
contributing fully to creating solutions. Now, there is no
time to lose.
For 22 years, L’Oréal has affirmed loud and clear –
the world needs science, and science needs women.
This certitude forms the soul of the For Women in Science
programme, which we established in 1998 in
partnership with UNESCO. Together, we share one Our ambition is to contribute to the emergence of a
conviction – giving women the place they deserve in more inclusive science, for the service of all women
research means contributing to scientific progress and and men. Achieving this will require a profound
EDITORIALS
a better world. evolution in mentalities in the academic sphere,
in universities and at the heart of our societies, across
This fight for science and the women’s cause is
the world. And that’s why in this fight for real equality,
directly linked to our history and our values.
we have adopted a holistic, pragmatic approach that
L’Oréal was founded by a chemist, and therefore covers all fronts.
science occupies a fundamental place for us.
Firstly, we seek to recognise and highlight female role
Our mission is offer the best of beauty for everyone,
models in science. We put the reputation and
so we count on male and female talents to reflect the
international reach of UNESCO and L’Oréal at the
diversity of the world and its perspectives.
service of outstanding women researchers who are too
But in science, equality is far from a reality. often in the shadows. We tell the world they exist,
The figures speak for themselves, with statistics that publically praise their work and inspire young
advance a little, and far too slowly. Women represent g e n e rat i o n s to e m b ra ce s c i e n t i f i c c a re e r s .
hardly 30% of researchers. And this percentage falls Through the For Women in Science programme, we are
by more than half when it comes to senior posts. proud to have highlighted more than 3,400 researchers.
6 7
By advancing the cause
of women, we can drive
progress in science
Every year, we celebrate five exceptional women from I hope, will reinforce our collective aim to fight against The world is burning. In the past year, fires have blazed
the major areas of the world, honouring them with an the often invisible discrimination experienced across the Amazon, Australia, Indonesia and Central
international award for excellence. In parallel, by women researchers.We are convinced – gender Africa, taking a devastating toll on human societies
we support more than 260 doctoral and post-doctoral diversity leads to new and better quality science. and biodiversity.
candidates with research grants in 118 countries. Beyond the question of equality, this is about giving
Climate change is here, and we must act now
This support is often decisive in enabling them to ourselves all the opportunities we can for scientific
to deal with it. In this situation, the world needs
complete their research, particularly in regions impacted innovation that benefits all women and men.
science. Through science, we can reinvent our
by a lack of funding and insufficient resources.
Those who join our fight with UNESCO in the fight for relationship to the natural world. Through science, we
Secondly, we accompany Laureates and young real equality between women and men scientists will can make the transition to clean energy. Through
researchers to help them break the glass ceiling, advance the frontiers of human knowledge, accelerate science, we can find ways to make agriculture and
© Christelle ALIX - UNESCO
establish their names in the field as exceptional scientific progress and amplify its positive impact on industry more sustainable and productive.
scientists and join forces to make their voices heard. the challenges facing our world.
This is why we are training these women, particularly But to succeed in this combat for sustainability,
The world needs science, and science needs women.
those in the early stages of their career, on topics we must unlock the whole potential of science.
including communication, personal development and We must tap into all available talent and harness all
negotiation. They all agree that this support helps to JEAN-PAUL AGON knowledge, innovation and creativity. We must open
“
accelerate their careers and boost their confidence. Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the L’Oréal Group this field up to all women, who represent half of our
We are also engaging eminent men scientists in the President of the Fondation L’Oréal collective intelligence. The world needs science, and
science needs women.
fight, encouraging them to work with us to eliminate
We must open
discrimination and prejudice, at the heart of the
academic system.
And yet today women represent less than 30% of all this field up to all women,
scientists around the world.
But none of this is enough. We therefore wish to speak who represent half of our
out even more strongly to outline the brakes and This percentage is even lower in disciplines such as collective intelligence.
“
obstacles faced by women scientists throughout computer science, information and communication
their careers, in order to prompt an awareness, which, technology, engineering, mathematics, and physics.
8 9
This is why UNESCO aims to build the capacities of
women in science, technology, engineering and
mathematics (STEM), as well as support the
contributions of women to the generation and
“
dissemination of scientific knowledge. By advancing
the cause of women, we can drive progress in science.
This goal is reflected in the partnership between
UNESCO and L’Oréal.
The work of these
For the past 22 years, the Fondation L’Oréal and five researchers has
led to significant
UNESCO have run the For Women in Science
Programme, to highlight the excellence of outstanding
women scientists while encouraging and supporting a
new generation of women researchers through
breakthroughs
networking, mentoring and fellowship opportunities.
In 2020, the L’Oréal-UNESCO International Awards
particularly with
re co g n i ze f i ve b r i l l i a n t wo m e n re s e a rc h e r s
from Bangladesh, Europe, Lebanon, Mexico and
regard to the ecological
the United States. transition and more
The work of these five researchers has led to significant
breakthroughs in their respective fields, particularly
sustainable industry.
“
with regard to the ecological transition and more
sustainable industry. I salute the Laureates and Young
Talents of this programme, and welcome their
invaluable contribution to the sustainable wellbeing of
our planet and all its inhabitants.
AUDREY AZOULAY
Director-General of the United Nations Educational,
Scientific and Cultural Organization
10
Building momentum
on gender equality
in science
“
Overcoming the significant obstacles preventing
women scientists from breaking the glass ceiling is
vital to finding solutions to humanity’s greatest
challenges. I have been an adjunct
As a new decade begins, the world of science still
professor for over 20 years…
prevents women scientists from fulfilling their
potential, depriving humanity of talents that could in spite of having
help solve the world’s most pressing challenges.
And no-where is this more evident than at the
positive evaluations and
recommendations for promotion
FOCUS
pinnacle of academic institutions. Only 17% of the
world’s top 200 universities are led by a woman,1
“
with even fewer leading scientific departments,
particularly in the fundamental sciences. In Europe,
just 11%2 of scientific senior research posts are
occupied by women. We must empower more
women scientists to break the glass ceiling if we ALUMNA OF THE
are to thrive in the future. FOR WOMEN IN SCIENCE PROGRAMME
13
Since 1998, the L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science initials to avoid revealing her gender, for example. 25-34 and 47% of those 35-44) and contract passion in a world designed by and for men.
programme has supported more than 3,400 women “This was unacceptable for me and, of course, I signed insecurity (39% of the youngest group) were also Now, more than ever, we must unleash women’s
scientists worldwide. To understand the impact of using my full name,” she says. “The paper was finally among the most challenging career hurdles. potential and harness the diverse perspectives and
gender discrimination on their careers, the Fondation accepted. But the prejudice was installed.” But this is more than a question of gender bias: talents of women – and all marginalised groups – to
L’Oréal commissioned a unique, independent study of 53% of respondents to our survey confirming they help create a brighter future. With the freedom to
One For Women in Science alumna was congratulated
For Women in Science alumnae from 65 countries, had witnessed sexual harassment over the course of advance and flourish, women will play a major role
by a man scientist with the words “I liked your talk,
across multiple disciplines and ages. 3
Their their career, and 47% experiencing it at least once. in creating science-led solutions that benefit
you think like a man”, revealing that people too often
testimonies of 327 senior alumnae shine a light on Alumnae testimonies suggest that harassment begins everyone equally.
visualise successful scientists as men.
the stark realities facing women in science – from the with multiple acts of ‘micro-aggression’, small daily
lack of opportunities for career progression to the The problem is not limited to perceptions. comments, behaviours or scenarios that become
challenges of work-life balance and sexual The whole system has been designed not for women, normalised and if unchecked, create a ‘toxic’
harassment – while providing compelling insights for but by men, for men. atmosphere for women scientists, and can escalate
“
pathways for change. Around 60% of respondents 60% of the For Women in Science alumnae to gender-based hostility and even serious offences.
agree that conventional scientific career paths and interrogated by the Fondation L’Oréal’s independent Some 24% had experienced a sexist joke and 22% had
workplace cultures exclude women, slowing women study reported that their career timing and goals experienced a hostile remark about women at least
scientists’ career progression or even prompting them had an influence on when and whether to become once in the past 12 months, while 21% of senior
to leave science. In particular, 55% said they faced
gender bias in hiring, promotion and funding decisions,
aparent. “[Family and caregiving factors] have made alumnae had seen staff or students leave due
to harassment. Women scientists without children
We must unleash
me think strategically about when to have children
with women receiving smaller grants, lower salaries and [affected] my decision about which institutions tend to experience aggression relating to their gender
women’s potential
and less start-up funding than men. “I have been an to join,” one alumna said. Additionally, 67% agreed more frequently than those with children, our survey
adjunct professor for over 20 years… in spite of having that having a child was guaranteed to affect suggests. Women’s experiences in academia are and harness the diverse
positive evaluations and recommendations for a woman’s career in science. improving, and men are joining the fight for equality.
promotion,” one alumna said. Women starting
The lack of progressive parental and childcare
However, only 25% of alumnae believe their perspectives and
research groups also have comparatively less access institutions’ sexual harassment measures are adequate
to the facilities, mentorship and teams they
policies is symptomatic of a broader exclusion
o f wo m e n f ro m t h e sys te m , a cco rd i n g to
and only 45% think their institutions comprehend the talents of women
need to succeed.4 extent of the gender issue, despite 76% confirming
“
For Women in Science alumnae study.
their employers could do more to advance
Scientific careers now require longer ladders, with
women leaders. The change required is systemic and
55% of the alumnae
fewer permanent positions available, 4 and more
transformational, encompassing a radical shift in
competition for each.
mind-sets and attitudes.
said they faced Challenges faced by For Women in Science alumnae
have included low pay, lengthy studies and job
We must reinvent the very fabric of scientific career
gender bias in hiring
paths and workplaces, and re-imagine the definition
insecurity, all of which pose a risk to both career
of academic success. Importantly, institutions –
progress and work-life balance. In particular, 1 - World University Rankings 2019.
and their predominantly male leaders–have
any young researcher whose social or economic 2 - UNESCO Science report toward 2030 (2015).
a m a j o r re s p o n s i b i l i t y to a c t a n d a d d re ss
Over half (54%) of alumnae have experienced steep situation prevents her from moving country
gender-based discrimination. This could start with 3 - This study was conducted from January 29th to February 11th 2019 with
challenges in building a reputation and gaining or accepting insecure, poorly paid or short-term For Women in Science alumnae. It comprised both an online survey and
acknowledging and measuring gender gaps, and
visibility for their work, with fewer opportunities to contracts is likely to experience obstacles to five qualitative telephone interviews. It was further informed by and
proceed to constructive policies that empower extensive review of relevant academic and professional literature.
participate in committees, juries, editorial boards and advancing in science. Among respondents aged
women, fight bias and create a level playing field for 4 - Acton, S. E., Bell, A., Toseland, C. P. & Twelvetrees, A. Preprint at BioRxiv
events. Meanwhile, 61% have struggled to maintain 25-34, 41% considered length of study and low pay
everyone in science. Many remarkable women https://doi.org/10.1101/571935 (2019)
ownership of projects and publications, with one without employment security as major challenges.
scientists, including our For Women in Science 5 - Kaplan, K. (2010). Academia: the changing face of tenure.
alumna being encouraged to sign her paper with Financial insecurity (cited by 41% of those
a l u m n a e, h ave p e r s i ste d w i t h co u ra g e a n d Nature, 468(7320), 123-125
14 15
5 outstanding female scientists
LAUREATE FOR AFRICA AND THE ARAB STATES
Professor Abla Mehio Sibai
Awarded for her pioneering research and advocacy to improve healthy ageing in
low- and middle-income countries and their impact on health and social policies
and programmes.
LAUREATE FOR ASIA-PACIFIC
Doctor Firdausi Qadri
Awarded for her outstanding work to understand and prevent infectious
diseases affecting children in developing countries, and promote early diagnosis
and vaccination with global health impact.
LAUREATE FOR EUROPE
Professor Edith Heard, FRS
Awarded for her fundamental discoveries of mechanisms governing epigenetic
processes that allow mammals to regulate proper gene expression, which is
essential for life.
LAUREATES LAUREATE FOR LATIN AMERICA
Professor Esperanza Martínez-Romero
Awarded for her pioneering work on the use of environmentally friendly bacteria
to support plant growth for increased agricultural productivity while reducing
the use of chemical fertilizers.
LAUREATE FOR NORTH AMERICA
Professor Kristi Anseth
Awarded for her outstanding contribution in converging engineering with
biology to develop innovative biomaterials that help promote tissue regeneration
and more effective delivery of drugs.
17
Professor
Population ageing is transforming the face of the Prof. Mehio Sibai returned to her studies, leveraging her
21st century society. People are now living 30 years lifelong love of mathematics and commitment to social
longer than their ancestors just 100 years ago, and for justice to pursue PhD studies in epidemiology.
the first time in human history, older adults over 65
Abla Mehio Sibai
Her early research focused on documenting the major
have outnumbered children under 5, worldwide.
demographic and epidemiologic transitions in Lebanon
This demographic phenomenon brings with it
and was directed towards developing a better
profound health, social, political and economic
understanding of their respective implications on
challenges, including a growing burden of chronic
health and quality of life among older adults. It focused
diseases and limited family resources available for
in particular on cardiovascular disease among the
elderly care. In a region where population ageing
country’s ageing post-war populations. She co-led the
coincides with chronic political instabilities and
country’s first ‘Global Burden of Disease’ project in
economic turmoil, prospects for older Arab men and
2001, and its first nation-wide World Health
women to remain active and preserve quality of life as
Organization ‘Non-Communicable Disease and Risk
long as possible, is even more challenging.
Factors Survey’, informing public health policy in
Professor Abla Mehio Sibai is addressing these Lebanon and globally. In a region that hosts one of the
questions through interdisciplinary, collaborative highest refugee populations in the world, she has also
research that aims to advance our understanding addressed challenges surrounding end of life care and
of the burden of non-communicable diseases clinical management of NCDs in primary care settings
(NCDs) among older adults in underprivileged and within refugee settlements.
post-war communities. She also seeks to influence
Prof. Mehio Sibai’s exploration of existing NCD research
a shift in the way we view elderly people’s right to
in Arab countries, where NCDs represent nearly 60% of
enjoy a meaningful, fulfilling life. Through her
A F R I C A A N D T H E A R A B S TAT E S
the disease burden, highlighted the disconnect between
g l o b a l l y re co g n i s e d wo r k , s h e h a s b u i l t a n
research and policy, and the pressing need to optimise
international reputation in the field of gerontology
research in resource-scarce countries. This included
and the epidemiology of NCDs, including
examining and critiquing routine sources of data such as
cardiovascular disease, cancer, diabetes and
death certification processes and the overuse of cardiac
wellbeing across the life course.
catheterisation in her country. She also spearheaded the
“As a researcher and public health activist, my work three mapping reviews of policies and programmes on
aims at understanding the context and factors that ‘Ageing in the Arab region’ (2007, 2012, 2017), and is
delay the decline as we age and promoting initiatives proud to be leading the development of the ‘National
that tap into the benefits we bring with longer life,” Strategy for Older Persons’ in Lebanon, for the country’s
explains Prof. Mehio Sibai. “I hope to inspire a Ministry of Social Affairs.
paradigm shift in the way we relate and act towards
Beyond the comfort zone of her university setting,
age and ageing.”
Prof Mehio Sibai is the director of Lebanon’s ‘Center for
Referring to her L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Studies on Aging’, which she co-founded in 2008.
Science Awards, she says: “This award is for all public The centre leverages scientific research in Lebanon and
health scholars working to make the world a better the Middle East and acts as a catalyst for policy,
place for older people, especially those who are too advocacy and positive change. In 2010, she co-founded
often marginalised and ‘left behind’, whether they are the ground-breaking ‘University for Seniors’ (UfS)
women caregivers in India, smallholder farmers in lifelong learning programme at the American University
Sub-Saharan Africa or older refugees in of Beirut, providing older adults with “opportunities to
the Arab region.” remain intellectually energised, physically active and
socially connected,” through education. UfS is run by
As a child, Prof. Mehio Sibai was inspired by
seniors as lecturers and committee members on a
mathematics. “I enjoyed playing with numbers and
volontary basis, and now offers more than 100 lectures,
riddles that required equations,” she recalls. However,
courses and workshops to more than 550 members
she initially studied pharmacy, and her ultimate
annually. It has achieved international recognition as
research interests were shaped by witnessing the
“an innovative and empowering initiative” and is even
impact of the Lebanese civil war from 1975 to 1990 on
‘prescribed’ by health professionals for its contribution
relatives and friends, and above all on the vulnerable
to delaying cognitive decline.
older population.
Prof. Mehio Sibai sees the socio-cultural barriers that
“My father was one of those severely affected when he
prevent women from breaking the glass ceiling in
lost a vibrant business and was forced into early
research as very similar to those that combine to
retirement,” she explains. “I learnt from his resilience
perpetuate ageism. “It is first and foremost a question
and ability to turn calamities into opportunities, but
of justice,” she says, asserting that “we must speak up,
moreover, it was these experiences that instilled in me
advocate and act to challenge longstanding practices
the passion for research on ageing and the importance
and stereotypes”.
of a human-centred approach to science.”
“And then it is a question of excellence,” she continues.
The violence in Lebanon had also brought an abrupt
“Science must harness the untapped energy of women,
end to her nascent pharmacy career and saw her
the other 50% of the population”. While women are
M E D I C I N E A N D H E A LT H S C I E N C E S become a full-time housewife and mother for the next
gradually claiming their space in academic spheres and
ten years. However, she knew in her heart that only
asserting their voices in public life, there is still much to
Professor of Epidemiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, scientific research would enable her to achieve
fulfilment and contribute fully to society.
do. She concludes: “Every young female student has
the right to pursue her passions and make the most of
American University of Beirut, Lebanon her talents. More funding and improved policies that
promote a greater work-life balance are vital to keeping
the talent of women scientists alight across the world.”
18 19Doctor
Firdausi Qadri Globally, over 800,000 children die of diarrhoea each
year, and 56% of children in low-income countries do
not receive the recommended treatment.1
In 2014, Dr Qadri founded the Institute for developing
Science and Health initiatives (ideSHi) to help develop
novel approaches to diagnosing genetic disorders and
train biomedical scientists and clinicians in immunology
In Bangladesh, cholera and typhoid are both major
and molecular biology-based research. Under her
causes of enteric diseases, yet many people lack the
leadership, ideSHi also conducts humanitarian and
knowledge or means to prevent these debilitating,
research programmes to identify pragmatic solutions
even life-threatening, conditions. Expanding access to
to public health challenges in Bangladesh, and
vaccination and promoting early diagnosis are
participates in health discussions at a global level.
fundamental to decreasing the country’s disease
Dr Qadri is active in fostering a supportive national
burden and helping to ensure that more children and
culture for biotechnological innovations, and acts as an
adults lead longer, healthier lives.
expert adviser nationally and internationally, working
Dr Firdausi Qadri is leading pioneering work to with the Bangladesh Ministry of Health and the World
understand the microbiological and immunological Health Organization, for example.
basis of bacterial diseases and treat infectious enteric
Her interest in life sciences began at an early age.
(gastro-intestinal) and diarrheagenic diseases affecting
“I felt that knowing the biochemical and immunological
children in Bangladesh and beyond, optimising
mechanisms of the living being was extremely
vaccines for young children suffering from malnutrition.
important,” she recalls. “I’ve been amazed by the way
Her scientific excellence and passion to help others
microorganisms grow and help humans to live on this
have led to major studies of an oral cholera vaccine
planet. But I’m also alarmed by their capacity to
among nearly a million people at risk in vulnerable
endanger peoples’ lives.”
Bangladeshi communities – with a vaccine due to be
launched imminently. To promote the rapid diagnosis Dr Qadri’s family was a real source of inspiration and
of cholera and typhoid, she has also developed support for the early stages of her scientific journey,
A S I A- PAC I F I C
innovative diagnostic tools and successfully overseen encouraging her to reach ever higher in her ambitions.
their journey from the laboratory to a practical, Yet life as a scientist in Bangladesh has not always
commercially viable reality. been easy. To overcome the lack of funding, resources
and researchers and fight entrenched cultural
“The suffering of thousands of diarrhoea patients is
expectations and gender prejudice, she has leveraged
due to poor living conditions and highly contagious,
courage and determination, and achieved excellence
contaminated food and water,” she says. “Staying
through rigorous multi-tasking and a superb team of
close to my roots [in Bangladesh] has enabled me
scientists. “I dream that in countries like ours, we will
to better understand people’s needs and find
develop state-of-the-art, self-sustaining facilities to
life-changing solutions.”
support the mentoring and capacity building of young
As a scientist at the unique International Centre for people, especially women, in scientific research.”
Diarrhoeal Disease Research, Bangladesh (ICDDR,B)
Importantly, she sees international collaborations as
in Dhaka, Bangladesh, Dr Qadri has used biochemical,
“the building blocks of my achievements.” These have
immunological and molecular approaches to research
included partnerships with leading researchers in the
the bacteria behind cholera (Vibrio cholerae) and
US, Sweden, France, the UK, Republic of Korea
typhoid (Salmonella typhi), as well as enterotoxigenic
and India.
Escherichia coli (ETEC). She explores the capacity of
mucous membranes to protect themselves against Balancing the demands of scientific research with
these pathogens and investigates the respective family life remains the greatest challenge Dr Qadri
bacteria at a genetic level to better understand their perceives for women in science today. Ultimately, she
infectious characteristics. This builds on her believes that women scientists must play a dual role in
longstanding interest in understanding Vibrio cholerae the quest to further the cause of science – both
as well as ETEC and their potential to cause cholera succeeding in their field and serving as role model for
epidemics in Bangladesh. “I knew I wanted to find a future generations. Beyond this, achieving gender
diagnostic method and work towards a prevention balance in science means instilling the wonder of
mechanism,” she recalls. science in girls and boys, and encouraging them to
embrace its potential to change the world.
Dr Qadri’s ground-breaking work on cholera
vaccinations has had a positive ripple effect, advancing
progress on vaccines against diseases including
1 - World Health Organization: https://www.who.int/maternal_child_
cholera, typhoid and ETEC diarrhoea. In particular, she
adolescent/documents/9789241598415/en/
is working on a typhoid vaccine in the urban slums of
Dhaka, and both this and her cholera vaccine studies
BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES are being replicated in Asia, Africa and Haiti. “I would
like to see our work scaled up to treat many more
Senior Scientist, Head Mucosal Immunology and Vaccinology Unit, people globally, as they struggle with the risk of disease
linked to humanitarian crisis and climate change,”
Infectious Diseases Division, International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease she says.
and Research, Dhaka, Bangladesh
20 21Professor
Edith Heard, frs
“Curiosity in research is fundamental to advancing life Already an avid scientist as a school pupil,
1 and science, and solving some of the great challenges Prof. Heard never imagined any barriers for women,
we face as a society,” says Professor Edith Heard. only professional success. Encouraged to pursue her
This biologist has made fundamental discoveries interest in science by both her women teachers and her
surrounding the epigenetic mechanisms governing family, she studied Natural Sciences at Cambridge
X-chromosome inactivation (whereby one of the two X University, where she experienced the first of many
chromosomes in females is silenced), a vital process for ‘Eureka’ moments, when she realised that biology was
proper gene expression. In particular, her research her true calling. “It was the power of genetics, the
could have relevance to diseases such as cancer, where elegance of development, the beauty of evolution that
epigenetic processes are disturbed, as well as inspired me,” she recalls.
autoimmune syndromes that are more prevalent
Her quest to answer longstanding questions on X
among women. She is also profoundly influencing
inactivation builds on the pioneering discoveries of
epigenetics as a whole and forging connections
the British geneticist Mary Lyon in 1961, and has
throughout the scientific world to uncover new,
contributed significantly to illuminating this important
interrelated areas of research.
topic. For example, she and her team combined
“Epigenetics seeks to explore how the blueprint of imaging techniques such as fluorescence in-situ
life, the genome, can be used in multiple ways during hybridisation with molecular genetics techniques to
development, and how this leads to stable, follow the expression of the chromosome in individual
memorable changes in gene expression,” Prof. Heard cells through development. “We went on to uncover
explains. “I hope that our research on epigenetic the way the X chromosome is folded in 3D space and
regulation of X-chromosomal genes will enable therefore how structure can influence the way it is
further advances in health, including improved expressed,” she explains.
medical treatment for women in the future.”
She was also the first to show that X inactivation is a
Prof. Heard attributes her most meaningful highly dynamic process during embryogenesis
explorations into the genetic and epigenetic changes (the process through which the embryo forms and
that occur in cancer to her 20 years at the Institut develops), and involves multiple chromatin changes.
Curie in Paris, France, where she nurtured her research Chromatin is a mass of genetic material composed of
EUROPE
in a clinical setting. In particular, she explored the DNA and proteins within the nucleus of a cell.
extent to which epigenetic changes – which are When cells divide, chromatin condenses to form
present in all cancerous cells – are influential in the chromosomes. In 2012, Prof. Heard led the discovery of
development of the disease or can deactivate genes a new level of chromosome organisation, known as
capable of suppressing tumours. Topologically Associating Domains, which tidy the
DNA like woollen threads into many balls of wool, each
As Director General of the European Molecular Biology
of which plays a role in the regulation of gene
Laboratory (EMBL) in Heidelberg, Germany, she
expression and the X inactivation phenomenon.
continues her own research, while working to ensure
EMBL utilises its global reach to promote the precious Although Prof. Heard has not personally experienced
nature of fundamental research and harness gender prejudice, she says: “I didn’t realise there was
technologies to answer major questions, “addressing a glass ceiling until I’d slipped through it and noticed
biology on all scales, from atoms to ecosystems”. I was a rare specimen. I quickly realised that many
This could include exploring how the microbiome women do have to try harder, speak louder, stay
reacts to drugs, how an embryo develops from a calmer and identify male allies”. However, she remains
fertilised egg, or how a viral protein can be targeted confident in the power of novel results and scientific
by vaccines. discovery to override gender, and feels humble
following in the footsteps of iconic women scientists
And importantly, her ambitions for the EMBL extend
such as French-Polish physicist and chemist, Marie
beyond humans to planetary health. “In order to
Curie, and Mary Lyon, whose power of conviction
protect life, we must first understand it,” she says.
a n d i n te l l i g e n ce e n a b l e d t h e m to s u cce e d
“The molecular basis of life on earth is still a great
against all the odds.
mystery. It’s our duty as scientists to push the frontiers
of research to support life in all its forms and help “Women and men should be equally represented at
address pollution, climate change and biodiversity every level,” she says. “Once we achieve a critical
loss, catalysing a new era of research.” mass, it will be easier to attract more women and this
will create a butterfly effect. Mentorship, support and
Indeed, Prof. Heard is passionate about European
identifying pathways to create a more balanced
research remaining a beacon of scientific excellence
work-family life will be critical. More than anything,
and upholding the vital cross-border collaboration that
women should follow their heart and nurture their
enables major breakthroughs and attracts talented
passion for science.”
scientists. Researchers should also continue to play an
BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES increasingly important role in “bridging the gap “I dream of the day when people won’t even notice how
between science and society”. She has been heartened many women or men there are in a laboratory or in an
Director General of the European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Heidelberg, Germany, by the support from across Europe for her goal to
bring scientists across different disciplines together to
institute,” she concludes. “Science will be for any
gender, nationality or culture.”
Chair of Epigenetics and Cellular Memory at the Collège de France, Paris, France, tackle some of the world’s most important problems.
and former Director of the Genetics and Developmental Biology Unit at the Institut Curie 1 - Fellow of the Royal Society.
22 23Professor Empowering smallholder farmers to raise productivity Her ‘Eureka’ moment came when she realised the
Esperanza Martínez-Romero
by adopting sustainable practices sits at the heart of parallels of human gut microbiota and root microbiota.
feeding the world’s rapidly growing population. “I realised that human and plant evolution has been
Professor Esperanza Martínez-Romero is addressing driven by pathogens, that roots are a valuable food
this challenge by harnessing the power of beneficial source for their associated microbes, and bacterial
bacteria to promote plant health. Her significant phenotypes are not good taxonomical markers,”
discoveries in understanding the role of local she recalls. “I was able to look beyond nitrogen fixation
nitrogen- fixing bacteria in increasing crop yields, as an ecological service and consider how probiotic
particularly in cereal and legume crops, stand to bacteria could be harnessed to promote plant
support global food security and improve smallholders’ and insect development.”
livelihoods. They could even lead to a reduction in the
Prof. Martínez-Romero describes her scientific dream
use of synthetic fertilisers, helping to protect the
as “finally obtaining bacteria that are successful in
environment and safeguard biodiversity.
promoting plant growth and controlling insect or
“We all live in symbiosis with microbes, but they have fungal pests in agricultural fields”, noting the
typically been neglected in all ecosystems,” explains difficulties in successfully transferring laboratory
Prof. Martínez-Romero. “It’s only recently that the experiments to the field. She has also extended her
impact of microbiome research has changed.” research interests to understanding the symbiotic
relationships between certain bacteria and native
Nitrogen is essential for healthy plant growth and
Mexican insects such as the carmine cochineal,
abundant in the atmosphere, however, in order for
whereby the bacteria both fix nitrogen and enable
plants to ‘digest’ it efficiently, this life-giving element
their hosts to produce more vitamins and essential
needs to be transformed by nitrogen-fixing bacteria.
amino acids. Beyond this, “I would love to see animals
The resulting partnership, or symbiosis, between plants
such as fish, fixing nitrogen,” she says. “This would be
and bacteria enables the plant to maximise the benefits
a more cost-effective way to produce fish with higher
of the nitrogen. With its wealth of plant diversity,
levels of protein, beneficial for human health.”
Prof. Martínez-Romero’s home country of Mexico has
L AT I N A M E R I C A
provided ample material for her studies. She has Many collaborations have enriched her work, including
focused in particular on two of the country’s most her first collaboration with Leuven University in
important crops: beans and maize, exploring the Belgium, which won her substantial funding and
interaction between plants and bacteria at a molecular sparked a longstanding student exchange programme.
level. For example, she has shone a light on the She is currently working with researchers at the
symbiotic relationship between the bacteria Rhizobia Universidad Agraria la Molina in Peru to help address
and host legume plants, such as beans, whereby rural poverty and raise yields in both countries through
bacteria gain nourishment from the plants’ roots, a collective journey to advance knowledge on mutually
while delivering nitrogen via the root nodules. Prof. b e n e f i c i a l re l a t i o n s h i p s b e t we e n b a c t e r i a
Martínez-Romero is intrigued by understanding the and host plants.
bacteria’s genome expression, in order to gain a
While gender prejudice in the workplace has not held
complete view of their genome. She also researches
Prof. Martínez-Romero back, she recognises the
the evolutionary implications of the process of ‘lateral
c h a l l e n g e o f m a l e - d o m i n ate d co n fe re n ce s ,
transfer’, whereby bacteria exchange genes.
decision-making groups and awards committees.
In 1991, she discovered that the strain Rizobium tropici “Women in science are highly dedicated, intuitive and
could deliver high levels of nitrogen to legumes, the very bright,” she says. “Whenever I am part of a steering
most widely consumed plants globally, even under committee for congresses, we always seek to create a
stress due to soil acidity, metal content, or high gender balance among the speakers.”
temperatures. Thanks to her research, Rizobium
She is keen to encourage more young women to build
tropici has become the inoculant of choice among
a career in science, highlighting that “in the laboratory,
farmers in many countries. Indeed, during her
there is no difference between women and men
distinguished career, Prof. Martínez-Romero has made
scientists whatsoever”. In particular, she coordinated
significant efforts to help smallholder farmers adopt
a university’s undergraduate programme in Genomic
biofertilisers, including by publishing a practical
Sciences for six years, supporting both her female and
manual and giving multiple lectures.
male students, and is proud of the outstanding
Prof. Martinez-Romero’s was inspired to become a successes of her women graduates, both in Mexico
scientist by her parents. Her mother, a director at an and internationally.
elementary school in Mexico City, propelled her
“The L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science Awards
daughter towards her studies, while her father shared
renew my enthusiasm for research and I very much
his zoology books with her from an early age, instilling
hope it will encourage more girls to enter science,” she
in her a love of nature. She determined to dedicate her
concludes. “Gender discrimination should no longer
academic studies to biomedical research and began
play a part in determining who progresses in scientific
her current journey at the National University of
E C O L O G Y A N D E N V I R O N M E N TA L S C I E N C E S Mexico’s Nitrogen Fixation Research Institute,
research. Science is wonderful and should be open to
everyone.”
becoming fascinated by the beneficial effects
Professor of Environmental Science at the Genomic Science Center, of bacteria on plants.
National University of Mexico, Mexico
24 25Professor One of the United States’ most distinguished engineers,
Professor Kristi Anseth is leading the way in fusing
demand (so that they degrade or soften, for example),
as tissues begin to regenerate naturally. It is also
Kristi Anseth
engineering with biology to develop responsive revealing new ways to help tissues heal more rapidly.
biomaterials to stimulate tissue regeneration and drug
Prof. Anseth’s pioneering journey has its roots in the
delivery. She and her team are exploring materials and
“collaborative spirit” of the western United States, with
approaches to help regenerate cartilage, encourage
its rich history of intrepid explorers, prospectors and
bones to heal faster, and deepen understanding of
frontier families in search of a brighter life.
cardiac disease. Beyond the laboratory, Prof. Anseth
Descended from a family of Scandinavian settlers, she
has also co-founded a business to produce materials
learnt the value of “hard work and education” from her
that promote wound healing. In the future, she
grandparents and great grandmother, who
envisions engineering miniature organoids or complex
homesteaded as a single woman in North Dakota in the
tissues to further illuminate complex diseases and
early 20 th century. It was here that Prof. Anseth
discover new treatment pathways. Her ultimate
witnessed the solar eclipse that first made her wonder
scientific dream is to alleviate, or even eliminate, the
at the universe. “I have vivid memories of that moment”,
debilitating effects of ageing.
she recalls. “It was amazing to have a front row seat…
“We’re increasingly optimising the design of I was fascinated by the universe around me.”
biomaterials to direct healing, target cells or release
Inspired by a school chemistry teacher to pursue
drugs on demand,” she explains. “I hope that some of
science, and mentored by a university professor
the biomaterials we’re developing will lead to better
whose faith in her abilities strengthened her resolve to
medical products that not only improve quality of life,
specialise in bioengineering, Prof. Anseth is convinced
but save people’s lives.”
of the power of mentorship. She has a deep
Passionate about leveraging her engineering skills to co m m i t m e n t to s u p p o r t i n g t h e m o re t h a n
impact human health, Prof. Anseth has made a 300 students in her laboratory, more than half of
profound contribution to advancing biomaterials by whom are women, well above the 20% national
operating at the interface of cell biology, chemical average for engineering students. And she sees a key
NORTH AMERICA
engineering and medicine. Her work has reinforced the role for scientists in encouraging more girls to study
value of multi-disciplinary research in solving societal science in the United States, particularly by
challenges, and seen her become one of few engineers highlighting its positive impacts in society.
to be elected to all three US National Academies of Popular culture, too, should raise awareness of leading
Engineering, Medicine, and Sciences. women scientists, she believes, celebrating women
such as her colleague Frances Arnold, the first US
Through her early research, Prof. Anseth used
woman to win a Nobel Prize for Chemistry, and
hydrogels to grow human tissues, cultivating and
Margaret Hutchison Rousseau, the first woman to
observing cells in these gels to help engineer
receive a PhD in chemical engineering.
biomaterials that can optimise the delivery and efficacy
of a medicine within the body. Formed primarily of “When asked to name a scientist or engineer, my goal
water, hydrogels are highly compatible with human is that any child or adult would first name and visualise
bodies, non-toxic and offer a similar flexibility to our a successful young woman,” she says.
own natural tissues, enabling the body to better accept
As a woman in science, Prof. Anseth was initially
medicine ‘hidden’ within the gel.
hesitant to pursue leadership positions, conscious of
She recalls an early moment of enlightenment when the perceived need to prove herself, regardless of her
she began using light microscopy to explore cells in many awards and accolades. Despite this, she
3D biomaterials and track their functions in real time. encountered relatively few obstacles as she rose
“I was struck by the unique opportunity to develop through the ranks, and felt supported along the way by
chemistries that could be conducted in the presence a “great network of friends and advocates”.
of living cells,” she says. Today, she and her team
With multiple studies confirming that diversity
harness a wide range of light wavelengths to create
catalyses major discoveries, new ideas and superior
and modify their materials in 4D. “It’s amazing and
solutions, Prof. Anseth is determined that there should
insightful to watch how cells respond to changes in
be “a concerted effort to recruit, encourage, and assist
the surrounding biomaterials scaffold [a support
women and underrepresented individuals to pursue
made of hydrogel]. This helps us design better
careers in science and engineering.” Importantly,
biomaterials to interface in the body.”
empowering more women scientists to become leaders
In the context of tissue regeneration, a patient’s cells are will help to ensure a more balanced approach to
fused together with a hydrogel support. As the cells defining the value of research and advancing science
multiply, they can be manipulated to form different that benefits men and women.
types of tissues (from skin to bones to muscle or
“Women are talented, brilliant, and exceptional
cartilage), before being placed at a precise point in the
community builders,” she says. “They’re open to
body. In 2003, Prof. Anseth and her team were the first
creative ideas, respectful, bold and decisive, quick to
to use light-activated chemistry to engineer an
ensure that the right people receive recognition, and
BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES injectable, biodegradable material that could
committed to purpose-led research. I look forward to
regenerate cartilage.
playing a more visible role in advocating for the next
Distinguished Professor, Tisone Professor and Associate Professor Her work in developing photopolymers (hydrogels that generation of women scientists, and helping to ensure
are sensitive to light) has been instrumental in creating that girls see no limits to their future in science.”
of Surgery at the University of Colorado, Boulder, United States biomaterials with properties that can be changed on
26 27The future
of science
Since 2000, the L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science
programme has highlighted the achievements of
younger women who are in the early stages of their
scientific careers.
Each year, the International rising talents programme
selects the 15 most promising women scientists among
the almost 260 doctoral and post-doctoral researchers
of the L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science
programme. These young women are the very future
of science and recognising their excellence will help
ensure that they reach their full potential.
“
Scientific excellence
INTERNATIONAL and innovation requires
RISING both women and men,
I’m highly motivated
TALENTS to continue my research
and make a positive impact
in society.
DR NOUF MAHMOUD
“
29A F RI C A A N D T H E AR A B STAT E S AFRICA AND T H E ARAB STAT E S AFR I CA AND THE AR AB STATES AFR I CA AND THE AR AB STATE S
Dr Laura-Joy Boulos Dr Nowsheen Goonoo Dr Nouf Mahmoud Georgina Nyawo
YOUNG TALENTS AWARDS - LEVANT YOUNG TALENTS AWARDS - YOUNG TALENTS AWARDS - LEVANT YOUNG TALENTS AWARDS -
Institut des NeuroSciences Appliquées et humaines (INSAN), SUB-SAHARAN AFRICA Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Technology Laboratory, SUB-SAHARAN AFRICA
Saint-Joseph University, Beirut, Lebanon Biomaterials, Drug Delivery and Nanotechnology Unit, Al-Zaytoonah University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan Clinical Mycobacteriology & Epidemiology (CLIME), Stellenbosch
Centre for Biomedical and Biomaterials Research, University, Stellenbosch, South Africa
NEUROSCIENCE HEALTH SCIENCES
University of Mauritius, Réduit, Mauritius MOLECULAR BIOLOGY, MEDICAL MICROBIOLOGY
BIOMEDICINE
Neuroscientist Dr Laura-Joy Boulos is shining a light on In Mauritius, some 20.5% of adults suffer from type Some 35 million people in the Middle East and Africa Tuberculosis (TB) is the leading infectious cause of death
the effect of prolonged post-war situations in Lebanon 2 diabetes. In particular, diabetic foot represents a are living with diabetes. With many cases going worldwide. In Africa, the burden of TB is exacerbated by
and across the Middle East on mental health and major public health challenge, resulting in conditions undiagnosed, cases of diabetic foot and limb HIV (which weakens the lungs, making people more
decision-making. By monitoring hundreds of people’s such as foot ulcers and amputations. amputations are all too prevalent. Building on her vulnerable to pulmonary infection) and limited resources
decisions through a novel mobile application and Dr Nowsheen Goonoo is seeking to reduce the healing experience in developing novel nano-therapies to and funding for research. Enterprising Zimbabwean
combining the findings with further tests and time of diabetic foot ulcers using nanofibres partially address multiple diseases and health conditions, scientist Georgina Nyawo is addressing this challenge by
investigations, she aims to co-create artificial composed of polysaccharides (a type of carbohydrate Dr Nouf Mahmoud is designing gold nano-platforms to exploring the relationship between diverse bacterial
intelligence (AI)-led solutions to help people navigate consisting of interlinked sugar molecules) derived from promote the enhanced healing of diabetic wounds. communities (the microbiome) in the human body,
the perpetual uncertainty of modern times. In an plants including seaweeds and aloe vera derived from Coated with substances to help prevent inflammation TB and people’s resilience to TB. Her work will inform
increasingly uncertain and fast-paced world, her work the rich, diverse Mauritian waters and landscape. and infection, the wound dressing both accelerates the novel medical treatments, helping to rid the continent of
could help to promote more effective decision-making healing process and reduces the risk of amputation. this crippling disease.
“My dream is to launch the first nanotech-based wound
in multiple life and business contexts. “To me, science is the ability to explore nature, to learn “I’ve always wanted to contribute to improving health and
care product for diabetic patients in Mauritius using
“When I was seven, I remember visiting the desert in affordable, local and renewable resources,” she says. more about the world and ourselves,” she says. fighting disease in Africa,” says Ms Nyawo. “I would like
Jordan with my parents, and feeling so filled with the “Accelerating the healing process will enable diabetic “My scientific dream is to succeed in developing a scientific research to prosper in all corners of the continent
pure wonder of existence that I shouted ‘J’existe!’ patients to recover more quickly, avoiding amputation biomaterial patch to help solve the problem of diabetic and play a key role in expanding access to healthcare.
[‘I am alive’] in French,” she says. “So my big dream is and reducing the economic burden associated with wounds and revolutionise the experience of people My dream is to see TB and ultimately HIV and AIDS
to understand life. It’s this fundamental curiosity that hospital treatment.” suffering with diabetes.” defeated in my lifetime.”
drove me towards science – and it’s that same need to Dr Mahmoud enjoyed her school science lessons, and Ms Nyawo’s longstanding passion for science began
As a child, Dr Goonoo explored the abundant flora and
keep exploring and digging deeper that propels me on realising she could make a difference through science, at school, where she enjoyed maths and science.
fauna of her native country, Mauritius with her family,
to pursue my research today, even if it means embarked on her journey to become a scientist. Inspired by her innate desire to conquer challenges,
wondering at the effervescence and vitality of nature.
uncovering a seemingly infinite scope of possibilities.” “The fascinating and unexpected results I achieved she was determined to pursue science at a higher
“I still remember how fascinated I was to discover that
Beyond the challenge of proving the value of research in the leaves of the mimosa plant folded up like dominoes through my PhD studies inspired me to innovate further,” level, and continues to persevere on her journey
Lebanon, Dr Boulos is also aware that as a woman when I touched them,” she says. Inspired by her father’s she says. “Today, science is not just a job for me, it is a of scientific discovery.
leading a research project in a patriarchal society, she will work as a nursing officer, she also developed a passion passion. Put simply, science makes me happy.”
She sees the L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science
have to “fight every step of the way”. But she also feels a for medicine. Now, she is harnessing her scientific While Dr Mahmoud’s family and colleagues have International Rising Talents programme as a “significant
strong responsibility to engage in the broader fight to expertise, her longstanding connection to nature and supported her in addressing the challenge of balancing victory in fulfilling my PhD”, helping her to overcome some
empower women in science and beyond. “We owe it to desire to promote health in her drive to create novel research with motherhood, she recognises that women of the challenges she has experienced in furthering her
the next generations,” she says. This will involve biomedical products. scientists in general must show more perseverance and training and sharing her findings internationally.
encouraging girls at school to pursue their dreams and persistence in their research due to their additional
Aside from the ultimate challenge of balancing She believes balancing a scientific career with family
creating compelling role models to help girls “internalise daily challenges and responsibilities.
motherhood and senior scientific roles, Dr Goonoo responsibilities remains the greatest challenge for women
the image of successful women and make their goals
recognises that building self-confi dence is a key To thrive in the scientific community, women scientists scientists in Africa, where cultural traditions place a heavy
seem more tangible.”
strategy for women to succeed as scientists and must overcome fear and self-doubt, and gain access to burden of household responsibility on women. Shifts in
With the increased visibility brought by the make themselves heard in decision-making circles. effective role models and strong mentors, she believes. attitude are required, with men taking on a greater role in
L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science International Healthy debates between male and female colleagues Training and education to promote gender equity, the home, as well as more mentorship for women and
Rising Talents programme, Dr Boulos aims to help are important, she believes, as well as mentorship, together with greater efforts to help more women robust childcare policies.
establish neuroscience as a topic of interest for more role models and strong networks of supportive reach leadership roles are also vital.
people in Lebanon and the Middle East, while sparking women scientists. “The presence of more women in science will act as a
new interdisciplinary partnerships to explore the “Scientific excellence and innovation requires both beacon of light, inspiring young girls to consider science
“Gender equality in science fosters innovation and women and men,” she concludes. “I’m honoured that and creating a positive ripple effect across the continent,”
mysteries of the brain.
improves the quality of scientific research,” she my work has been recognised by L’Oréal and UNESCO, she concludes. “And the more scientists we have – women
concludes. “I have faith in the future and it is now up and highly motivated to continue my research and and men – the greater chance we’ll have to defeat
to us to inspire young women to pursue science and make a positive impact in society. I’ll never give up.” infectious diseases, dethrone TB and enable African
keep pushing through the glass ceiling until people to thrive.”
it shatters completely.”
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