2017 L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science Awards
The 2017 L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science Awards in the physical sciences will receive their awards at a ceremony in Paris on 23 March 2017.
Proposed by an international community of more than 2,000 leading scientists, the five laureates were selected by an independent international jury of 12 renowned scientists presided this year by Professor Christian Amatore, of the French Académie des sciences. Each laureate will receive a prize of €100,000 to reward their contribution to science
The L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science Awards are presented every year to five women, one from each world region (Africa and the Arab States, Asia-Pacific, Europe, Latin America and North America) in recognition of their scientific accomplishments. Each scientist has had a unique career path combining exceptional talent, a deep commitment to her profession and remarkable courage in a field still largely dominated by men.
Laureates
Africa and the Arab States
Professor Niveen KHASHAB
Lebanese
Associate Professor of Chemical Sciences and Engineering, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Saudi Arabia
Analytical chemistry
“For designing novel nanoparticles that could improve early detection of disease.”
Her work in analytical chemistry could lead to more targeted and personalized medical treatment.
Asia / Pacific
Professor Michelle SIMMONS
Australian
Professor, Centre of Excellence for Quantum Computation and Communication Technology - University of New South Wales, Australia
Quantum physics
“For pioneering ultra-fast quantum computers.”
Her work on atomic-scale transistors could give birth to tomorrow’s computers.
Europe
Professor Nicola SPALDIN
British
Professor and Chair of Materials Theory, ETH Zürich, Switzerland
Solid state physics
“For reinventing magnetic materials for next-generation electronic
devices.”
Her research on multiferroic materials could lead to a new generation of electronic equipment components.
Latin America
Professor Maria Teresa RUIZ
Chilean
Professor, Department of Astronomy, Dept. / Universidad de Chile, Chile
Astrophysics
“For her contributions to the study of a variety of faint celestial objects hidden in the darkness of the universe.”
Her observations on brown dwarfs could answer the universal question of whether there is life on other planets.
North America
Professor Zhenan BAO
American
Professor, Department of Chemical Engineering, Stanford University, USA
Material Chemistry
“For inventing skin-inspired electronic materials.”
Her research on flexible, stretchable and conductive materials could improve the quality of life of patients with prostheses.
