STEM
Maria Gordon
Dame Maria Matilda Gordon was an eminent Scottish geologist, paleontologist, and politician. Her groundbreaking contributions to geology and her tireless efforts to promote gender equality have left an indelible mark on both the scientific community and society as a whole. With a profound education and a passion for fieldwork, Maria Gordon made significant contributions to the understanding of geological formations in Scotland, particularly during the Devonian period. She also actively campaigned for the rights and equality of children and women, paving the way for future generations. Her dedication and achievements continue to inspire and empower women worldwide.
Elna Munch
Elna Munch was a Danish feminist and politician who made significant contributions to women’s rights in Denmark during the early 20th century. Her academic achievements set the stage for her future activism and leadership in the women’s suffrage movement. As the vice chairperson of LKV, Elna Munch played a pivotal role in organizing local sections and mobilizing women across Denmark to fight for their right to vote. She represented Denmark at the congresses of the International Woman Suffrage Alliance from 1906 to 1923, establishing connections and collaborating with international women’s rights activists.
Kalpana Chawla
Kalpana Chawla, an Indian-born American astronaut and aerospace engineer, made history as the first woman of Indian origin to fly to space. She displayed a passion for aviation from a young age and went on to earn multiple degrees in Aerospace Engineering. Chawla’s career at NASA and her contributions to the field are commendable. Tragically, she lost her life during her second space mission, leaving behind a remarkable legacy and numerous tributes in her honor.
Joyce Hamilton Berry
Joyce Hamilton Berry, LP, Ph.D., born in 1937, is a prominent clinical psychologist who has made significant contributions to the field. Her life story reflects the challenges and triumphs of an African-American woman growing up amidst racial segregation and rising above societal barriers to achieve remarkable success.
Kellee Santiago
Kellee Santiago, a Venezuelan American video game designer and producer, co-founded the renowned video game company thatgamecompany. She produced critically acclaimed games like Flow, Flower, and Journey, showcasing her unique approach to game design and storytelling. Santiago’s passion for supporting independent game developers led her to become a TED fellow and she continues to shape the gaming industry as the head of developer relations at Niantic.
Encarnación Cabré
Encarnación Cabré Herreros, a Spanish archaeologist, was a trailblazer in her field, becoming the first professional female archaeologist in Spain. Despite facing obstacles during the Spanish Civil War and the Francoist dictatorship, Encarnación’s passion for archaeology remained unwavering. Her perseverance and dedication made her an icon in the male-dominated profession, and she paved the way for future generations of women in archaeology. In recognition of her exceptional achievements, Encarnación was officially acknowledged by the Spanish parliament in 2019 for her contributions to women’s professional advancement.
Esmeralda Mallada
Esmeralda Herminia Mallada Invernizzi, a renowned Uruguayan astronomer and professor, was born on January 10, 1937. She made significant contributions to the field of cosmography and her groundbreaking work in astronomy has earned her numerous accolades, including having an asteroid named after her. Esmeralda’s dedication to promoting astronomy and inspiring future generations of astronomers is truly remarkable.
Ida Freund
Ida Freund was a trailblazer in chemistry and a pioneering advocate for women’s education in science. Despite facing adversity, she excelled in her studies and became the first woman to be appointed as a staff lecturer in chemistry in the United Kingdom. Her impact extended beyond academia, as she fought for gender equality and contributed to the field through research. Her indomitable spirit continues to inspire future generations of scientists.
Merieme Chadid
Merieme Chadid is a renowned Moroccan-French astronomer, explorer, and astrophysicist. With a deep passion for the mysteries of the universe, Chadid has dedicated her life to unraveling its secrets and expanding human knowledge. Growing up in a modest family, her fascination with astronomy ignited at the age of 12 when her brother gifted her a book by Johannes Kepler. This serendipitous event sparked a lifelong curiosity that would shape her future. Chadid’s educational journey began at the University of Hassan II Casablanca and she has since made significant contributions to the field of astronomy.
Mary Somerville
Mary Somerville (1780-1872) was a Scottish scientist, writer, and polymath who made significant contributions to mathematics and astronomy. Her breakthrough work, “The Mechanism of the Heavens,” published in 1831, established her as a respected scholar in the scientific community. In addition to her scientific achievements, Somerville also played a role in advocating for women’s rights and equality. She passed away on November 29, 1872, leaving behind a remarkable legacy that continues to inspire generations of scientists and women around the world.
Lisa Nowak
Lisa Marie Nowak, an American aeronautical engineer, former NASA astronaut, and United States Navy officer, has had both notable achievements and personal challenges in her life. She excelled academically and pursued her passion for aviation and space, ultimately becoming an astronaut and flying aboard Space Shuttle Discovery. However, her career took a downward turn after she was involved in a criminal incident, resulting in her arrest and termination from both NASA and the Navy. Despite this, her contributions to aeronautics are still significant and she serves as an inspiration for women in STEM.
Claudie Haigneré
Claudie Haigneré, renowned French doctor, politician, and former astronaut, made significant contributions to space exploration throughout her career. She became the first French woman in space in 1996 and later commanded a Soyuz capsule during reentry in 1999, becoming the first woman qualified to do so. Haigneré’s achievements as an astronaut, combined with her work in politics and science, have left an indelible mark on society.
Flossie Wong-Staal
Flossie Wong-Staal, born Wong Yee Ching on August 27, 1946, in Guangzhou, China, was a Chinese-American virologist and molecular biologist who made groundbreaking contributions to the understanding of HIV and AIDS. Her pioneering work in cloning HIV and determining the function of its genes played a vital role in establishing HIV as the definitive cause of AIDS.
Nicole Aunapu Mann
Nicole “Duke” Victoria Aunapu Mann, born in 1977 in Penngrove, California, embraced her Wailaki heritage and became an accomplished astronaut. She obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in mechanical engineering from the US Naval Academy and a Master of Science degree from Stanford University. After serving in the US Marine Corps, Mann was selected as a NASA astronaut and made history as the first Native American woman to go to space. Her achievements have broken barriers and inspired future generations of women.
Freda Porter
Freda Porter, a Lumbee tribe member, broke barriers as one of the first Native American women to earn a PhD in the mathematical sciences. With a passion for mathematics and the natural world, she founded Porter Scientific, Inc., an environmental consulting agency, and became a leader in the field of environmental science. Porter’s dedication to her community and advocacy for Native Americans in STEM has left a lasting impact on both academia and society.
Shannon Walker
Shannon Walker (born June 4, 1965) is an American physicist and NASA astronaut. She has made significant contributions to the field of space exploration and has served as an inspiration for women in STEM. Walker’s career has been marked by numerous accomplishments, overcoming challenges, and making a lasting impact on society.
Kono Yasui
Kono Yasui, a Japanese biologist and cytologist, made groundbreaking contributions to science and paved the way for female scientists in Japan. Her passion for learning and pursuit of knowledge led her to become the first woman to enter a graduate course at the Women’s Higher Normal School. Despite facing barriers and restrictions, Yasui conducted research abroad and earned a doctoral degree, leaving a lasting impact on the field of biology.
Jewel Plummer Cobb
Jewel Plummer Cobb was an American biologist and cancer researcher who made significant contributions to the field of cancer research, particularly in studying the cure for melanoma. She was also a passionate advocate for increasing the representation of women and students of color in universities, creating programs to support underrepresented students. Her legacy as a pioneering biologist, cancer researcher, and advocate for diversity and inclusion continues to inspire generations of students.
Willie Hobbs Moore
Willie Hobbs Moore (1934-1994) was the first African American woman to earn a PhD in physics. Her groundbreaking achievements in science and engineering, along with her dedication to mentorship and promoting diversity, have left a lasting impact on society.
Helen Brewster Owens
Helen Brewster Owens (April 2, 1881 – June 6, 1968) was an American suffragist and mathematician. She dedicated her life to advancing both the rights of women and the field of mathematics. With a passion for gender equality and an exceptional talent for mathematics, Brewster Owens made significant contributions to both areas, leaving a lasting impact on society.
Mary Jackson
Mary Jackson, a pioneering American mathematician and aerospace engineer, made significant contributions to aeronautics at NACA and NASA. Overcoming racial and gender barriers, she became NASA’s first black female engineer. Jackson’s expertise advanced aerospace technology, and her advocacy for diversity and equal opportunities left an indelible impact. Her inspiring story was featured in the book “Hidden Figures” and honored with the renaming of NASA headquarters to the Mary W. Jackson NASA Headquarters.
Susan M. Collins
Susan M. Collins is a distinguished American economist and leader in the field of finance. She has made significant contributions to academia, public policy, and the financial sector throughout her illustrious career. Collins currently serves as the 14th president and CEO of the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston, a position she assumed on July 1, 2022.
Halima Ali Adan
Halima Ali Adan is a Somali gender rights activist and an expert on female genital mutilation (FGM). She was born and raised in Mombasa, Kenya. After completing her schooling, Adan went on to study Computer Science at the University of Greenwich in London, where she earned a BSc degree. She furthered her education by obtaining a MSc in Development Studies.
Gerty Cori
Gerty Theresa Cori was a Czech-American biochemist who defied societal expectations to make significant contributions to the field of science. With her husband, Carl Ferdinand Cori, she discovered the mechanism behind glycogen metabolism and the Cori cycle, earning them the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1947. Despite facing barriers as a woman in science, Gerty’s passion and determination paved the way for advancements in the treatment of metabolic disorders.
Sonja Lyttkens
Sonja Lyttkens was a Swedish mathematician who made significant contributions to the field and was a champion for gender equality in academia. Not only was she the third woman in Sweden to earn a mathematics doctorate, but she was also the first woman to secure a permanent university position in the field. Her work paved the way for future generations of women mathematicians, inspiring them to break barriers and pursue their dreams.
Maureen Colquhoun
Maureen Colquhoun, Britain’s first openly lesbian Member of Parliament, broke barriers and paved the way for LGBTQ+ representation in British politics. Her activism for gender equality and social justice continues to inspire generations, reminding us of the significance of diverse representation and the ongoing fight for equal rights.
Lenore Blum
Lenore Carol Blum is an American computer scientist and mathematician known for her significant contributions to real number computation, cryptography, and pseudorandom number generation. She has held prestigious positions and has been a pioneer in diversifying the fields of mathematics and computer science. Blum’s dedication to promoting diversity and empowering women in mathematics has made a lasting impact in her field.
Betty Holberton
Frances Elizabeth Holberton, known as Betty Holberton, was an American computer scientist who played a pivotal role in the early development of computers. She was one of the six original programmers of the first general-purpose electronic digital computer, ENIAC, and made significant contributions to computer programming and debugging.
Chieko Asakawa
Chieko Asakawa (born 1958) is a blind Japanese computer scientist, renowned for her groundbreaking work in accessibility at IBM Research – Tokyo. Her contributions to the field of technology have significantly improved the lives of individuals with visual impairments, making her a pioneering figure in the realm of accessibility.
Bich-Yen Nguyen
Bich-Yen Nguyen, a Vietnamese electronics engineer, has made significant contributions to the field of advanced materials and technologies for integrated circuits. Born into a humble background, Nguyen’s life journey is a tale of determination, resilience, and impactful innovations.
Mary Adela Blagg
Mary Adela Blagg was an English astronomer who made significant contributions in the field of lunar cartography and variable stars. She compiled a comprehensive list of all lunar features, identified discrepancies in the naming of lunar features, conducted research on variable stars, and even corrected a flaw in Bode’s Law. Her work helped further our understanding of the moon and the universe, and her pioneering efforts continue to inspire scientists today.
Katharine Coman
Katharine Ellis Coman was a trailblazing American social activist and economist who dedicated her life to promoting social change and empowering women through education. Coman’s work in understanding the economic history of the United States paved the way for future generations of female economists and social reformers. Her dedication to education, social justice, and women’s empowerment left a lasting legacy that continues to inspire to this day.
Vibert Douglas
Allie Vibert Douglas, a Canadian astronomer and astrophysicist, overcame gender barriers to pursue her passion for science. Despite facing discrimination, she excelled academically and received numerous accolades, including the Order of the British Empire. Douglas played a pivotal role in promoting women’s education in Canada and made significant contributions to the field of astrophysics throughout her career.
Anne-Marie Imafidon
Anne-Marie Osawemwenze Ore-Ofe Imafidon MBE HonFREng is a British-Nigerian social entrepreneur and computer scientist. She founded Stemettes in 2013 and has made significant contributions to promoting women in STEM careers. Her dedication and work have earned her numerous accolades and recognitions, including an MBE and being named one of the BBC’s 100 women of 2017.
Mazlan Othman
Emerita Professor Tan Sri Dr. Mazlan binti Othman is a Malaysian astrophysicist who pioneered her country’s participation in space exploration. She was the first astrophysicist in Malaysia and contributed significantly to the field of astrophysics. Her work in creating a curriculum in astrophysics at the national university and promoting public awareness of astronomy and space issues has been instrumental in advancing Malaysia’s space program.
Grete Hermann
Grete Hermann was a German mathematician and philosopher known for her significant contributions to mathematics, physics, philosophy, and education. Her early work on the foundations of quantum mechanics, although initially overlooked, has since gained recognition and has been influential in the field. Her critique, if known earlier, could have potentially altered the trajectory of quantum mechanics.
Georgia Tourassi
Georgia “Gina” D. Tourassi is a prominent figure in the field of biomedical informatics, known for her contributions to computer-aided diagnosis and artificial intelligence (AI) in healthcare. She currently serves as the Director of the Oak Ridge National Laboratory health data sciences institute and is an adjunct Professor of radiology at Duke University. Tourassi began her academic journey at Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, where she pursued a degree in physics and graduated in 1987. She then moved to Duke University for her doctoral studies and earned a PhD in 1993. Throughout her research and career, Tourassi has made significant advancements in the use of big health data and AI in the field of epidemiology, particularly in relation to cancer. Her work focuses on the development of computer-aided diagnosis (CAD) systems, specifically in breast cancer screening. These systems are interactive, knowledge-based, and utilize information theory. One of Tourassi’s notable contributions is the development of indexing systems that enhance the efficiency of image analysis. She has also implemented techniques to monitor the reliability of CAD systems and advanced computational intelligence techniques like genetic algorithms. Her knowledge-based approach incorporates image entropy to identify the most informative medical images and flag potential cancer indicators. Tourassi’s expertise in the field led to her election as a member of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) advisory committee on computer-aided diagnosis. This appointment highlights her impact on shaping the future of CAD systems. In 2011, Tourassi joined the Oak Ridge National Laboratory as the Founding Director of the Health Data Sciences Institute. In this role, she oversees the strategic agenda of the biomedical science and computing group. Tourassi has organized numerous biomedical research conferences at the institution, establishing herself as a driving force in the field. One of Tourassi’s primary interests is the development of automated tools for cancer surveillance. She has utilized the power of the Oak Ridge National Laboratory’s Titan supercomputer to implement deep learning techniques for extracting information from cancer pathology reports. These efforts align with the Cancer Moonshot 2020 initiative, aiming to accelerate progress in cancer research. Tourassi’s work extends beyond cancer diagnostics. She applies AI techniques to mammogram interpretation, avoiding context bias and improving the accuracy of diagnoses. Additionally, she has developed iCrawl, a user-oriented web crawler that collects online content for e-health research. Another noteworthy project Tourassi has contributed to is Oak Ridge Graph Analytics for Medical Innovation (ORiGAMI). This data tool supports diagnostics and research, with Tourassi employing it to explore literature related to genomics. Her collaborative efforts resulted in the development of a knowledge graph that enables the extraction of meaningful information from unstructured data. Throughout her career, Tourassi has been a passionate advocate for women and minorities in science and engineering. Her involvement in these areas highlights her dedication to promoting diversity and inclusivity within the field.
Anna Kikina
Anna Yuryevna Kikina, born in Novosibirsk, Russia in 1984, is a Russian engineer and cosmonaut. She has made significant contributions to space exploration and is known for breaking gender barriers in the field. Kikina’s career highlights include being the only female cosmonaut currently in active service at Roscosmos and being the first Russian cosmonaut to fly on a Crew Dragon spacecraft. Her dedication and pioneering spirit have left an indelible mark on the history of space exploration.
Margaret Benson
Margaret Benson (1865-1916) was an English author and Egyptologist who made significant contributions to archaeology. She excavated the Precinct of Mut at the Temple of Karnak in Egypt, uncovering statues, artifacts, and gaining insights into the temple’s history. Benson’s pioneering work as a female archaeologist opened doors for future generations of women in the field. Her writings also contributed to the understanding of ancient Egyptian history and culture, leaving behind a lasting legacy.
Alice Mary Weeks
Alice Mary Dowse Weeks (1909-1988) was an American geologist known for her significant contributions to the field. She advocated for women in geology and played a crucial role in establishing the Geology Department at Temple University. Weeks’ research and discoveries had a lasting impact on the scientific community.
Eulalia Guzmán
Eulalia Guzmán Barrón (1890–1985) was a pioneering feminist, educator, and nationalist thinker in post-revolutionary Mexico. From an early age, she rejected the idea that women were destined for domesticity and aspired to become a teacher. Guzmán’s journey towards becoming an influential figure began when she was awarded a grant to study at the Normal School for Teachers, from where she graduated in 1910. Her activism and contributions continue to inspire generations of women, scholars, and social reformers.
Meg Urry
Claudia Megan Urry, also known as Meg Urry, is a prominent American astrophysicist who has made notable contributions to the field of astronomy. She has served as the President of the American Astronomical Society, chaired the Department of Physics at Yale University, and has been recognized for her efforts to promote gender equality in science and academia. Urry’s passion for her research, dedication to addressing sexism, and numerous accomplishments have made her an influential figure in women’s history and a role model for scientists.
Sumathi Rao
Sumathi Rao (born 5 December 1956) is an Indian theoretical physicist and professor at Harish-Chandra Research Institute, specializing in condensed matter physics. She has contributed significantly to her field despite facing biases and challenges throughout her career, including undervaluation of her work and accusations of her husband’s involvement in her research. Rao has been actively involved in promoting women in science, particularly in physics, through her work with the International Union of Pure and Applied Physics (IUPAP) and her writings on inspiring young girls to pursue careers in STEM.
Timnit Gebru
Timnit Gebru is an Eritrean Ethiopian-born computer scientist known for her significant contributions to the field of artificial intelligence (AI). She has conducted groundbreaking research on algorithmic bias and data mining and has been a strong advocate for diversity in technology. Gebru’s career has been marked by impactful projects and her efforts to advance women in STEM fields.
Elsa van Dien
Elsa van Dien (1914-2007) was an astronomer who made significant contributions to the field of astrophysics. Born in Paramaribo, Surinam, she overcame adversity during World War II and went on to pursue her passion for astronomy. Her research on early type stars and her dedication to spreading scientific knowledge have left a lasting impact on the field. Her story is an inspiration to aspiring scientists.
Catherine Coleman
Cady Coleman, an American chemist and former NASA astronaut, has made significant contributions to space exploration. With expertise in chemistry and engineering, she has spent a total of 159 days in space and is a veteran of two Space Shuttle missions. Her pioneering work has inspired many, particularly women, to pursue careers in STEM fields.
Jasmin Moghbeli
Jasmin Moghbeli is an American U.S. Marine Corps test pilot and NASA astronaut. She grew up in Baldwin, New York, and attended Baldwin Senior High School. Moghbeli’s dedication and passion for aviation led her to become a helicopter test pilot and ultimately, a NASA astronaut. She has received numerous awards and accolades throughout her career and is set to command the SpaceX Crew-7 mission to the International Space Station in 2023. Her remarkable journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring aviators and young women worldwide.
Hilda Geiringer
Hilda Geiringer, an Austrian mathematician, displayed exceptional mathematical aptitude from a young age. After completing her undergraduate degree and receiving her Ph.D., she worked as an assistant to Leon Lichtenstein and Richard Edler von Mises. Despite facing challenges as a single mother, Geiringer persisted in her work, shifting her focus to applied mathematics. She was forced to leave Germany due to discriminatory laws but continued her research in Brussels and Istanbul, contributing to the advancement of mathematical understanding.
Darleane C. Hoffman
Darleane Christian Hoffman, born in Terril, Iowa, in 1926, is an American nuclear chemist known for her significant contributions to the field of science. She confirmed the existence of Seaborgium, element 106, and conducted extensive research on transuranium elements. Hoffman’s groundbreaking work and numerous accolades have made her a role model for aspiring scientists, particularly women, in the field of nuclear chemistry.
Heidemarie Stefanyshyn-Piper
Heidemarie Martha Stefanyshyn-Piper, born in 1963 in St. Paul, Minnesota, is an astronaut and a role model for women in the field of science and engineering. With Ukrainian-American heritage, she grew up in the Ukrainian cultural community of Minneapolis-Saint Paul. She pursued her passion for engineering at MIT and went on to have an impressive career in the military and as a NASA astronaut, completing five spacewalks and earning multiple prestigious awards. Her achievements have inspired countless individuals to pursue careers in STEM.
Ruthann Knudson
Ruthann Knudson (1941-2018) was an American archaeologist known for her significant contributions to the study of North American Paleoindian (Plainview) lithics. As a woman navigating the field of cultural resource management during its early stages, Knudson played an active role in advocating for the inclusion and representation of women in reservoir salvage archaeology. Furthermore, she made substantial contributions to the drafting and promotion of the National Historic Preservation Act Amendments of 1980. Ruthann Knudson’s notable achievements, determination, and passion for archaeology continue to inspire and influence the field to this day.
Sylvia Wilbur
Sylvia B. Wilbur (born 1938) was a British computer scientist who played a crucial role in the development of the ARPANET and became a leading researcher in computer-supported cooperative work. Her contributions to the field of computer science and her pioneering work in email communication have greatly influenced the way we interact and collaborate today.
Sada Mire
Sada Mire is a Swedish-Somali archaeologist, art historian, and presenter who has dedicated her career to uncovering and preserving the cultural heritage of Somaliland. Through her research and advocacy, she has made significant contributions to our understanding of the region’s past. Her work serves as a testament to the importance of cultural heritage and its role in shaping our collective identities.
Mabel Ping-Hua Lee
Mabel Ping-Hua Lee, born in 1896 in Guangzhou, China, was a pioneering Chinese-American women’s rights activist and minister. Raised in New York City, Lee became the first Chinese woman in the United States to earn a doctorate in economics from Columbia University. She made her mark as a prominent figure in the suffrage movement and later dedicated her life to advocating for Chinese immigrants and women in her role as a minister. Lee’s dedication and resilience continue to inspire generations fighting for equality and justice.
Susan Kilrain
Susan Kilrain, born on October 24, 1961, in Augusta, Georgia, is an American aerospace engineer, former United States Navy officer, and former NASA astronaut. She holds the distinction of being the youngest person to pilot a Space Shuttle and has over 3,000 hours of flight time. Kilrain’s groundbreaking achievements have solidified her place in history and paved the way for future generations of women in the field.
Ruth Turner
Ruth Dixon Turner (1914 – April 30, 2000) was a pioneering U.S. marine biologist and malacologist. She dedicated her life to studying and understanding shipworms, a taxonomic family of wood-boring bivalve mollusks that wreak havoc on wooden marine installations. Turner’s expertise in this field was unparalleled, earning her the distinguished title of the world’s foremost expert on Teredinidae.
Karen Spärck Jones
Karen Spärck Jones was a pioneering British computer scientist who revolutionized the field of information retrieval. Her concept of inverse document frequency (IDF) became the foundation for modern search engines, improving the accuracy and relevance of search queries. She was also a strong advocate for women in computer science, believing that computing is too important to be left to men. Her legacy lives on through the Karen Spärck Jones Award, which recognizes exceptional contributions to information retrieval and natural language processing.
Martha Rojas Urrego
Martha Rojas Urrego is a renowned biologist, ecologist, and humanitarian who has dedicated her life to advocating for gender equality and environmental conservation. Born in Colombia, she is also a French national, embodying a truly global perspective in her work.
Marietta Blau
Marietta Blau was an Austrian physicist who revolutionized the field of particle physics through her development of photographic nuclear emulsions. Her ingenious technique allowed for accurate imaging and measurement of high-energy nuclear particles, leading to significant advancements in scientific understanding. Despite facing challenges as a displaced scientist during World War II, Blau’s determination and pioneering work continue to inspire female scientists today.
Antonia Novello
Antonia Coello Novello, M.D., was born on August 23, 1944, in Fajardo, Puerto Rico. She grew up in a humble household, where her father worked as a sugar cane plantation worker and her mother was a homemaker. From a young age, Novello showed exceptional intelligence and a deep passion for helping others. Her parents encouraged her to pursue education, which they believed was the key to a better future.
Alice Lee
Alice Lee (1858–1939) was a British mathematician and one of the pioneering women in academia. She challenged prevailing beliefs regarding intelligence and gender, making significant contributions to statistics. Her groundbreaking research on the correlation between cranial capacity and intellectual ability reshaped the field of craniology and had broader implications for society’s perception of intelligence and gender. Despite facing adversity and skepticism, her work continues to be celebrated, and she remains an inspiring figure for women and academics alike.
Ruchi Sanghvi
Ruchi Sanghvi, the first female engineer hired by Facebook, has made significant contributions to the tech industry. Raised in Pune, India, Sanghvi pursued her education in electrical computer engineering and joined Facebook in 2005 as their first female engineer. She played a crucial role in developing the initial version of Facebook’s News Feed and later ventured into entrepreneurship, co-founding Cove. Sanghvi’s achievements have paved the way for women in technology and continue to shape the future of the industry.
Sylvia Bozeman
Sylvia D. Trimble Bozeman is an American mathematician and mathematics educator. Growing up in Camp Hill, Alabama, she was encouraged by her teachers and parents to pursue her education. She graduated as the salutatorian of her class and went on to earn her Ph.D. in mathematics, becoming one of the few Black women in the United States to do so. Bozeman has been dedicated to advancing women in mathematics through teaching and her research in operator theory and image processing.
Maria Margaretha Kirch
Maria Margaretha Kirch was a German astronomer who made significant contributions to the field during her time. Despite societal challenges and biases against women pursuing careers in astronomy, Maria overcame obstacles and published valuable findings on celestial events. Her dedication and passion for the subject continue to inspire women in astronomy today.
Kathryn C. Thornton
Kathryn Ryan Cordell Thornton, born on August 17, 1952, is an esteemed American scientist and former NASA astronaut who has left an indelible mark on both space exploration and academia.
Emilia Schatz
Emilia Schatz is an American video game designer known for her work at Naughty Dog. She studied computer science at the University of North Texas before starting her career in the video game industry. Schatz has been involved in the development of critically acclaimed games such as Uncharted 3: Drake’s Deception and The Last of Us Part II. In addition to her design work, she has also been a strong advocate for diversity and inclusivity in the industry.
Jill Tarter
Jill Cornell Tarter is an American astronomer known for her groundbreaking work on the search for extraterrestrial intelligence (SETI). She dedicated her career to unraveling the mysteries of the cosmos and exploring the possibility of life beyond Earth. Tarter’s passion for astronomy and her relentless pursuit of knowledge began at a young age, igniting her imagination and sparking her curiosity about what lies beyond our planet. Her unwavering dedication, commitment to scientific exploration, and advocacy for gender equality have left an indelible mark on both the scientific community and society.
Alenush Terian
Alenush Terian, the “Mother of Modern Iranian Astronomy,” was an Iranian-Armenian astronomer and physicist. Born into an Armenian family in Tehran in 1921, she pursued her education in science and made significant contributions to the field of physics in Iran. Despite facing obstacles, she became the first female professor of physics in the country and played a vital role in establishing the solar observatory at the University of Tehran. Terian’s dedication and expertise earned her recognition both nationally and internationally. She passed away in Tehran in 2011, leaving behind a lasting legacy.
Peggy Whitson
Peggy Annette Whitson, an American biochemistry researcher and former NASA astronaut, has made significant contributions to space exploration. From her childhood dream of becoming an astronaut to commanding the International Space Station and setting multiple records, Whitson has left an indelible mark on the field. Her legacy as a trailblazer and role model continues as she mentors the next generation of astronauts. Recognized as one of Time magazine’s 100 Most Influential People of 2018, Whitson’s impact on society and women’s history is remarkable.
Mary Anning
Mary Anning was an English fossil collector and palaeontologist who made groundbreaking discoveries in Jurassic marine fossil beds. Her findings revolutionized scientific thinking about prehistoric life and the Earth’s history. Born into a working-class family, Mary’s dedication to fossil hunting and her remarkable skill led her to become one of the most important figures in the field. Despite facing obstacles as a woman in science, her legacy of resilience and scientific contributions continue to inspire generations.
Jemma Redmond
Jemma Redmond was an Irish biotechnology pioneer and co-founder of Ourobotics, a 3D bio-printing firm. Her groundbreaking work in 3D bio-printing and keeping living cells alive while printed established her as a leading figure in Irish science and technology. Despite her untimely passing, Redmond’s legacy as one of Ireland’s brightest scientific minds lives on, inspiring future innovators in biotechnology and regenerative medicine.
Alice Leslie Walker
Alice Leslie Walker was an American archaeologist and leading expert on the Neolithic Period in Southern Greece. She made significant contributions to the field of archaeology and played a key role in expanding our understanding of ancient Greek civilization. Displaying her passion for archaeology from an early age, she attended Vassar College and later earned her MA. Through her academic journey, she excavated in various locations, including Halae and Corinth, unearthing significant findings and conducting extensive research. Despite health challenges caused by malaria, Walker remained committed to her work, leaving an indelible mark on the field of archaeology.
Lynne Quarmby
Lynne Quarmby is a Canadian scientist, activist, and politician. She is currently serving as a professor and Chair of the Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry at Simon Fraser University in Burnaby, British Columbia. Quarmby has made significant contributions to the field of molecular biology and her research has focused on understanding the signals and mechanisms of deflagellation, the process by which cells shed their cilia into the environment.
Katalin Balázsi
Katalin Balázsi is a Slovakia-born Hungarian material scientist and the head of the Thin Film Physics department. She has made significant contributions to electron microscopy and the characterization of nanomaterial structures. Balázsi co-founded the Association of Hungarian Women in Science, advocating for greater representation and opportunities for women in science. Her work and dedication continue to shape the scientific community and impact women’s history.
Mary W. Gray
Mary Lee Wheat Gray is an American mathematician, statistician, and lawyer who has made significant contributions to the fields of mathematics, mathematics education, computer science, applied statistics, economic equity, and discrimination law. Born on April 8, 1938, in the United States, Gray’s work has had a lasting impact on society and women’s history.
Elise Jenny Baumgartel
Elise Jenny Baumgartel was a German Egyptologist and prehistorian who pioneered the study of the archaeology of predynastic Egypt. She challenged prevailing views and contributed significantly to our understanding of ancient Egyptian culture. Despite facing adversity as a Jewish scholar during the Nazi regime, Baumgartel’s meticulous work and dedication have left a lasting legacy in the field of Egyptology and archaeology.
Dorothy Garrod
Dorothy Annie Elizabeth Garrod, CBE, FBA (5 May 1892 – 18 December 1968) was an English archaeologist who specialized in the Palaeolithic period. She held the position of Disney Professor of Archaeology at the University of Cambridge from 1939 to 1952 and was the first woman to hold a chair at either Oxford or Cambridge. Garrod’s work has had a lasting impact on archaeology and her contributions continue to inspire scholars today.
Nancy J. Currie-Gregg
Nancy Jane Currie-Gregg is an American engineer, United States Army officer, and a NASA astronaut. With a remarkable career spanning over 22 years in the United States Army, where she holds the rank of colonel, Currie-Gregg has also made significant contributions to space exploration as a member of NASA. She has participated in four space shuttle missions: STS-57, STS-70, STS-88, and STS-109, accumulating 1,000 hours in space. Currently, she serves as a professor of practice in the Department of Industrial & Systems Engineering at Texas A&M University.
Madge Adam
Madge Gertrude Adam, an English solar astronomer, made groundbreaking contributions to solar physics. Despite overcoming skeletal tuberculosis and rickets as a child, she excelled academically and became the first woman to achieve a first-class degree in physics at Oxford. Her career in solar physics led to significant research on sunspots, earning her international recognition and a position as a lecturer at the University of Oxford. Madge Adam’s passion, knowledge, and pioneering spirit cemented her as a respected figure in the field.
Gertrude B. Elion
Gertrude “Trudy” Belle Elion (January 23, 1918 – February 21, 1999) made significant contributions to medicine through her innovative methods of rational drug design. She revolutionized the field by focusing on understanding drug targets, leading to the development of life-saving medications such as AZT for AIDS and acyclovir for herpes. Despite facing gender discrimination, she persevered and became an icon in women’s history.
Samantha Cristoforetti
Samantha Cristoforetti, the first Italian woman in space, holds the record for the longest uninterrupted spaceflight by a European astronaut. Her achievements have not only advanced space exploration but have also inspired many, especially young girls, to pursue STEM careers and have opened doors for women in the space industry.
Anna Lee Fisher
Anna Lee Fisher, born Anna Lee Sims on August 24, 1949, is a renowned American chemist, emergency physician, and former NASA astronaut. Throughout her career, Fisher made significant contributions to the Space Shuttle, the International Space Station, and the Orion spacecraft programs. She holds the distinction of being the first mother to venture into space, solidifying her place as a pioneer in both space exploration and women’s history.
Linda Miller
Linda Jean Miller OBE, born in 1961, is an accomplished American civil engineer who has made significant contributions to the field. With more than 25 years of experience, Miller has played a crucial role in various engineering projects, leaving a lasting impact on society. One of her notable projects was the Boston Central Artery, and she was recognized as one of the Top 50 Influential Women in Engineering in the UK in 2016. Miller’s dedication to promoting gender equality in engineering has earned her the WISE Campaign 2016 Woman of the Year Award and an Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 2017.
Frederica de Laguna
Frederica Annis Lopez de Leo de Laguna, known as “Freddy,” was a prominent American anthropologist and archaeologist. Her passion for anthropology was solidified during her time studying with renowned anthropologists Franz Boas, Gladys Reichard, and Ruth Benedict at Columbia University. Through her groundbreaking research in Alaska and the American northwest, de Laguna shed light on the cultural practices of indigenous communities and the development of artistic expression in the region. Her contributions to the field of anthropology and her dedication to teaching continue to inspire future generations of scholars.
Tracy Caldwell Dyson
Tracy Caldwell Dyson, an American chemist and NASA astronaut, was born on August 14, 1969, in Arcadia, California. Her passion for science and exploration began at a young age, and she pursued her interests throughout her education. With a focus on atmospheric chemistry, Caldwell Dyson made significant contributions to our understanding of Earth’s atmosphere. She joined NASA in 1998 and went on to participate in two space missions, playing a vital role in the construction of the International Space Station and furthering scientific research. Her accomplishments have not only left a lasting impact on space exploration but have also inspired future generations.
Jessica Watkins
Jessica Andrea Watkins, the accomplished American astronaut, geologist, and aquanaut, has left an indelible mark on the world of space exploration. Born on May 14, 1988, in Gaithersburg, Maryland, to Michael and Carolyn Watkins, Jessica’s upbringing was marked by curiosity, ambition, and a drive for excellence.
Marie Torhorst
Marie Torhorst (1888-1989) was a German school teacher, political activist, and East German politician. She was the Minister for People’s Education in Thuringia from 1947 to 1950, making her the first-ever female minister in the state. Torhorst’s contributions in education and mathematics, including the Carathéodory-Torhorst theorem, solidify her legacy as a pioneering figure in German politics and academia.
Maria Mitchell
Maria Mitchell was an American astronomer, librarian, naturalist, and educator. She discovered a comet in 1847, known as “Miss Mitchell’s Comet,” and received a gold medal prize for her discovery. Mitchell was the first internationally known woman to work as a professional astronomer and a professor of astronomy. She was also a prominent advocate for women’s inclusion in scientific societies and careers in science. Mitchell’s contributions to the scientific community are widely honored and celebrated.
Loujain al-Hathloul
Loujain al-Hathloul is a Saudi women’s rights activist who has been at the forefront of the fight for gender equality in Saudi Arabia. Despite facing arrests and detentions, she remains resilient in her mission to defy the ban on women driving and challenge the male guardianship system. Recognized globally for her activism, al-Hathloul has received numerous awards and nominations, including the 2019 PEN America/Barbey Freedom to Write Award and being named one of Time magazine’s “100 Most Influential People of 2019”.
Susan Helms
Susan Jane Helms, a retired United States Air Force lieutenant general and NASA astronaut, made significant contributions to both civil and military space programs throughout her career. She served on five Space Shuttle missions, including a record-setting spacewalk, and spent over five months on the International Space Station. After her NASA career, Helms continued her work in the U.S. Air Force, culminating as the commander of the 14th Air Force and the Joint Functional Component Command for Space. Her achievements have earned her widespread recognition and induction into the National Academy of Engineering.
Yusra
Yusra, a Palestinian woman who worked with British archaeologist Dorothy Garrod, played a pivotal role in the excavations at Mount Carmel. Her expertise and meticulous screening skills led to the discovery of Tabun 1, a significant Neanderthal skull. Despite her limited documentation, Yusra’s contributions to archaeology and paving the way for women in the field are undeniable.
Tatyana Velikanova
Tatyana Mikhailovna Velikanova was a mathematician and Soviet dissident who played a crucial role in the human rights movement. She fearlessly declared her affiliation with the underground periodical A Chronicle of Current Events, exposing human rights abuses in the Soviet Union. Velikanova became a target of the regime and was sentenced to prison and exile. Her unwavering dedication to the cause of human rights and contributions to the movement make her a significant figure in women’s history.
Sofya Kovalevskaya
Sofya Vasilyevna Kovalevskaya, a Russian mathematician, was a pioneer for women in mathematics. She was the first woman to obtain a doctorate in mathematics, the first woman appointed to a full professorship in northern Europe, and one of the first women to work for a scientific journal as an editor. Kovalevskaya’s achievements, set against the weight of the obstacles she had to overcome, make her a truly admirable figure in history.
Naadiya Moosajee
Naadiya Moosajee is a highly accomplished South African engineer, social entrepreneur, and co-founder of Women in Engineering (WomEng), a non-profit organization dedicated to developing engineering talent among girls in multiple African countries. Born in South Africa in 1984, Moosajee has made significant contributions to the field of engineering and has been widely recognized for her inspiring work.
Elisabeth Hevelius
Elisabeth Catherina Koopmann-Hevelius, a pioneering astronomer, was born in Danzig, Poland in 1647. She made significant contributions to the field of astronomy in collaboration with her husband, Johannes Hevelius. After his death, Elisabetha completed and published their joint work, “Prodromus astronomiae,” showcasing her knowledge of mathematics and Latin. Elisabeth Hevelius passed away in December 1693 at the age of 46, leaving behind a lasting legacy in the field of astronomy.
Christa McAuliffe
Sharon Christa McAuliffe, born in Boston, Massachusetts, in 1948, was an American teacher and astronaut. Her dream of becoming an astronaut was ignited after watching John Glenn orbit the Earth. Selected as the primary candidate for the NASA Teacher in Space Project, she tragically lost her life in the 1986 Challenger shuttle disaster. Her lasting legacy includes inspiring countless students and educators to pursue STEM fields. Honored with the Congressional Space Medal of Honor in 2004, she remains an enduring symbol of courage and education.
Vera Huckel
Vera Huckel (1908–1999) was an American mathematician and aerospace engineer who made significant contributions to NASA’s early years. She was one of the first female “computers” at NACA, the predecessor of NASA, where she played a pivotal role in the Dynamic Loads Division.
Emmy Noether
Amalie Emmy Noether, born in 1882 in Erlangen, Germany, was a remarkable mathematician known for her groundbreaking contributions to abstract algebra. Despite facing gender biases and discrimination, she pursued her passion for mathematics and made significant achievements throughout her career. Noether’s work on algebraic invariants and Noether’s theorem solidified her place in history as one of the most influential mathematicians. Her dedication and perseverance continue to inspire future generations of mathematicians.
Ellen Ochoa
Ellen Ochoa, the first Hispanic woman to go into space, is an American engineer, former astronaut, and former director of the Johnson Space Center. Born in 1958 in Los Angeles, California, Ochoa overcame humble beginnings to become a trailblazer in the field of space exploration and a respected leader in the scientific community. Her achievements have not only advanced our understanding of optics and space technology but also broken barriers for women and minorities in STEM.
Jane Plant
Jane Anne Plant CBE, FREng, FRSE, FRSA was a pioneering geochemist, scientist, and author. Despite facing significant health challenges, including multiple bouts with cancer, she made substantial contributions to the field of geochemistry and environmental health. Her research on the link between dairy and breast cancer and her development of the BGS Geochemical Baseline of the Environment (G-BASE) program have had lasting impacts on scientific understanding. Plant’s dedication and groundbreaking work earned her numerous accolades, including being appointed a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in 1997.
Sara Mohammad
Sara Mohammad, a Kurdish-born Swedish human rights activist and pharmacist, has dedicated her life to fighting against honor killings and honor-related violence. Her personal experience with forced child marriage fueled her passion for advocating for the rights of women and girls. Through her organization GAPF, she has made significant contributions in raising awareness and preventing these forms of violence. Sara’s fearless commitment has been recognized through an honorary doctorate and her outspoken criticism of oppressive cultural norms has made her a prominent figure in the fight for women’s rights.
Liouba Bortniker
Liouba Bortniker (1860 – after 1903) was a trailblazing mathematician from the Russian Empire who achieved significant milestones for women in academia. She was the first woman to earn an agrégation in mathematics, the inaugural winner of the Peccot–Vimont prize, and the first woman to publish in the Comptes rendus de l’Académie des Sciences. Her groundbreaking research in cyclides and her impact as an educator continue to inspire and pave the way for future generations of women mathematicians.
Dorothy Vaughan
Dorothy Jean Johnson Vaughan, born in 1910 in Kansas City, Missouri, was an accomplished mathematician and a trailblazer in the field of women’s history. She was the first African-American woman to receive a promotion and supervise a group of staff at the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics (NACA) and later NASA. Vaughan’s story gained wider recognition when she was featured in the book and movie “Hidden Figures,” highlighting her significant role in the space race. In recognition of her remarkable achievements, she was posthumously honored with the Congressional Gold Medal in 2019.
Anna Winlock
Anna Winlock (1857-1904) was a pioneering American astronomer and human computer who made significant contributions to astronomy in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. As one of the first members of “the Harvard Computers,” a group of female astronomers, she played a vital role in making groundbreaking discoveries. Winlock’s work included creating a catalog of stars near the poles and conducting studies on asteroids such as 433 Eros and 475 Ocllo. Despite facing numerous challenges, she persevered in her passion for astronomy, leaving behind a legacy of excellence.
Margarethe Kahn
Margarethe Kahn, a German mathematician and Holocaust victim, was a pioneering woman who obtained a doctorate in Germany. Despite facing opposition, she successfully defended her dissertation in 1909, becoming one of the first German women to earn a doctorate in mathematics. Tragically, her life was cut short by the Holocaust, and she went missing after deportation to Piaski, Poland in 1942.
Ada Lovelace
Ada Lovelace, born in London in 1815, was the only legitimate child of Lord Byron and Lady Byron. Despite her mother’s disapproval of her father, Lady Byron recognized Ada’s intellectual potential and nurtured her interest in mathematics. Ada became fascinated with Charles Babbage’s proposed Analytical Engine and translated an article about it, adding her own extensive notes. Her visionary mindset allowed her to see the potential of computers beyond calculations, making her a pioneer in the field of computer science.
Conny Aerts
Conny Clara Aerts, born in 1966 in Brasschaat, Belgium, is a Belgian professor in astrophysics. She is known for her expertise in asteroseismology, a field that studies the interior structure and dynamics of stars. Aerts has made significant contributions to understanding stellar evolution and has been recognized with prestigious awards for her groundbreaking research. She is also an advocate for gender equality in the sciences and actively promotes women’s participation in astronomy.
Virginia Tucker
Virginia Layden Tucker (1909 – January 19, 1985) was an American mathematician at the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics (NACA), the precursor to NASA. She played a crucial role in developing aircraft design and aerodynamics as one of the first human computers at NACA. Tucker also worked as an aerodynamicist and advocate for women in mathematics, helping to diversify the field and expand opportunities for women in engineering and science.
Roma Agrawal
Roma Agrawal MBE FICE HonFREng is an Indian-British-American chartered structural engineer based in London. She has worked on several major engineering projects, including the Shard. Agrawal is also an author and a diversity campaigner, championing women in engineering.
Rabia Salihu Sa’id
Rabia Sa’id is a Nigerian physicist and professor known for her contributions to atmospheric and space-weather physics. Her research has improved weather forecasting and space weather monitoring systems. She has also been actively involved in promoting and supporting women in science, co-founding Nigeria’s Association of Women Physicists and mentoring young women through organizations like the Visiola Foundation and Peace Corps. Sa’id has received prestigious fellowships and awards for her work, including the Elsevier Foundation Award for Women Scientists in the Developing World in 2015. She is recognized for her dedication and advocacy for women in science.
Gina Rippon
Gina Rippon is a British neurobiologist and feminist who has dedicated her career to studying brain processes and their connection to behavior. Her research challenges the traditional notion of a “female brain” and emphasizes the role of both biology and societal influences in shaping gender-specific behaviors. Rippon’s groundbreaking book, “Gendered Brain: The New Neuroscience that Shatters the Myth of the Female Brain,” has received positive reviews for its exploration of brain development and its relationship to gender. She has also been critical of misleading neuroscientific claims and advocates for critical analysis in the field.
Marcia Keith
Marcia Anna Keith (1859–1950) was a physicist and teacher of physics to women. She played a crucial role in the education of women in physics and introduced individual laboratory work to students. Keith established the physics colloquium at Mount Holyoke and conducted research on the physics of heat transmission in gases at low temperatures. As a charter member of the American Physical Society, Keith was a pioneer in advocating for women in science. Her contributions have had a lasting impact on women’s education in physics.
Clementine Chambon
Clementine Chambon is a chemical engineer specializing in sustainable energy solutions. She is the Chief Technology Officer of Oorja Development Solutions, a social enterprise that provides clean energy access to off-grid communities in rural India. Chambon’s expertise in biomass gasification systems and her dedication to finding sustainable energy solutions have earned her numerous awards and recognition, including being named in Forbes’ 30 Under 30 List for Social Entrepreneurs in 2016. She continues to make a positive impact through her research and leadership in the field of sustainable energy.
Zeinab Elobeid Yousif
Zeinab Elobeid Yousif, a trailblazing Sudanese aircraft engineer, shattered stereotypes and became the first Sudanese woman licensed by the Civil Aviation Authority in the United Kingdom. Born in Khartoum, Sudan in 1952, Yousif defied societal expectations to pursue her passion for engineering. Her exceptional contributions to Sudan Airways and her groundbreaking achievements continue to inspire women worldwide.
Sheree Atcheson
Sheree Atcheson, born on 28 February 1991, is a Sri Lankan-born Northern Irish computer scientist and Group Vice-President of Diversity & Inclusion at Valtech. Atcheson has become a well-known figure in the tech industry, with a deep commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion. She has received numerous awards and honors for her significant impact on the industry, and continues to inspire future generations of women in tech.
Eileen Guppy
Eileen Mary Guppy was a pioneering British geologist, petrologist, and analytical chemist. She made significant contributions to the scientific community, focusing on petrology, analytical chemistry, and geological research. Despite facing gender-based discrimination throughout her career, Guppy’s dedication and determination paved the way for future female geologists. She was recognized for her 39 years of service with the Order of the British Empire, becoming the first female staff member to receive an MBE.
Sarah Parcak
Sarah Helen Parcak is an American archaeologist and Egyptologist known for her groundbreaking work in using satellite imagery to identify potential archaeological sites. She has revolutionized the field of archaeology through her research and excavations in Egypt, Rome, and other parts of the former Roman Empire. Parcak’s dedication and innovation have earned her numerous accolades and recognition in the field, including the prestigious $1 million TED Prize in 2016.
Ludmila Slavíková
Ludmila Slavíková-Kaplanová was a Czech geologist, mineralogist, and crystallographer. She made significant contributions to mineralogy, particularly in her research on pyrargyrite crystals. Despite facing adversity during the German occupation of Czechoslovakia, she actively participated in the resistance movement. Sadly, she was arrested by the Nazis and tragically lost her life in Auschwitz concentration camp. Her legacy as a groundbreaking scientist and a brave resistance fighter continues to inspire generations.
Harriet Boyd Hawes
Harriet Ann Boyd Hawes was a pioneering American archaeologist, nurse, relief worker, and professor. She made significant contributions to archaeology, particularly in gender equality and women’s involvement in the field. Harriet Boyd Hawes was the discoverer and first director of Gournia, one of the first archaeological excavations to uncover a Minoan settlement and palace on the Aegean island of Crete.
Muazzez İlmiye Çığ
Muazzez İlmiye Çığ (born 20 June 1914) is a Turkish archaeologist and Assyriologist who specializes in the study of Sumerian civilization. Born in Bursa, Turkey, Çığ has dedicated her life to unraveling the mysteries of ancient Mesopotamia and shedding light on the fascinating world of Sumer. Her groundbreaking research and unyielding passion for her field have made her one of the most influential female historians of our time.
Marjory Stephenson
Marjory Stephenson was a British biochemist who made significant contributions to microbiology and enzymology. Her groundbreaking research on bacterial metabolism and her role in establishing the Society for General Microbiology earned her numerous awards and recognition. Despite facing financial constraints and societal barriers against women in science, Stephenson’s perseverance and immense talent allowed her to leave a lasting legacy in the scientific community as a true trailblazer in the field of microbiology.
Karlina Leksono Supelli
Karlina Leksono Supelli, born in Jakarta in 1958, is a pioneering Indonesian philosopher and astronomer. She was one of the first female astronomers in Indonesia and made significant contributions to the field. Additionally, Karlina actively engaged in activism, advocating for societal change and defending the rights of marginalized communities. Her dedication to academia and her commitment to creating a more equitable world make her an inspiration to future generations.
Anna Coble
Anna Jane Coble-Mullen was a trailblazing American biophysicist who broke barriers throughout her career. As the first black woman to earn a doctorate in biophysics and be hired at Howard University, she dedicated her life to education and advancing underrepresented groups in the sciences. Coble’s passion for learning and advocacy has left a lasting impact on the field of biophysics and women’s history.
Dorothy Metcalf-Lindenburger
Dottie Metcalf-Lindenburger was born in 1975 in Colorado Springs, Colorado. From a young age, she had a passion for space and science. With the support of her parents, she pursued her dreams and became an accomplished astronaut. Her journey in space exploration and dedication to education have made her a role model for aspiring scientists.
Mary Kenner
Mary Beatrice Davidson Kenner, born on May 17, 1912, was an American inventor best known for her remarkable contributions to women’s hygiene. Despite facing racial discrimination, Kenner’s ingenuity led her to develop the adjustable sanitary belt, revolutionizing the way women managed their menstruation. However, it was not until thirty years later that her patent for the sanitary belt was finally granted.
Anna Kiesenhofer
Anna Kiesenhofer is an Austrian professional cyclist and mathematician. She made history by winning the gold medal in the women’s individual road race at the 2020 Summer Olympics, becoming the first Austrian to win a gold medal at the Summer Olympics since 2004 and the first Austrian to win a cycling Olympic gold medal since 1896. Alongside her athletic career, Kiesenhofer is also a postdoctoral fellow in mathematics at the École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne.
Clara Immerwahr
Clara Helene Immerwahr, the first German woman to be awarded a doctorate in chemistry, made significant contributions to the field and played a vital role in advancing women’s rights. Despite facing challenges and limited recognition, she remained dedicated to her pursuit of equality. Tragically, her life was cut short in 1915 under mysterious circumstances, but her legacy continues to inspire women in male-dominated fields.
Liz Fong-Jones
Liz Fong-Jones is a prominent site reliability engineer and developer advocate known not only for her technical expertise but also for her significant contributions to labor activism and worker organization efforts within the tech industry. As the president of the board of directors of the Solidarity Fund by Coworker, she has been instrumental in supporting and empowering workers. Fong-Jones continues to inspire and advocate for the rights of workers in the tech industry, leveraging her technical expertise and passion for social justice.
Eleanor Jones
Eleanor Green Dawley Jones (1929-2021) was an American mathematician and a prominent figure in the field of mathematics. She was one of the first African-American women to achieve a Ph.D. in mathematics, breaking down barriers and paving the way for future generations. Jones dedicated her life to promoting education, advocating for civil rights, and inspiring others to pursue careers in science and mathematics.
Misha Mahowald
Michelle Anne Mahowald, known as Misha, was an American computational neuroscientist who made significant contributions to the field of neuromorphic engineering. Born on January 12, 1963, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, she was the daughter of Alfred and Joan Fischer Mahowald and had a younger sister named Sheila.
Hoang Thi Than
Hoang Thi Than, the first female Vietnamese geological engineer and archaeologist, is a notable figure in the field of geological engineering and archaeology. Overcoming challenges and achieving significant accomplishments, she paved the way for future generations of women in these fields and served as an inspiration for women in STEM.
Semni Karouzou
Semni Papaspyridi-Karouzou was a Greek classical archaeologist who paved the way for women in the field. She broke barriers as the first woman to join the Greek Archaeological Service and made significant contributions to the study of pottery from ancient Greece. Despite political persecution during the Greek military junta, Karouzou remained resilient and left an indelible mark on Greek archaeology.
Kathleen Culhane Lathbury
Kathleen Culhane Lathbury was a British biochemist known for her groundbreaking work with insulin and vitamins. Throughout her career, Lathbury made significant contributions to the field of chemistry, particularly in the field of pharmaceuticals. Her dedication to her work, perseverance in the face of adversity, and pioneering research have left a lasting impact on the scientific community.
Marie Curie
Marie Curie, a pioneering physicist and chemist, was born in Warsaw, Poland, in 1867. Despite facing discrimination as a woman and foreigner, she made groundbreaking discoveries in radioactivity and was the first person, and still the only woman, to win Nobel Prizes in two different scientific fields. She died in 1934 at the age of 66, leaving behind a lasting legacy of scientific achievement and determination.
Florence Bascom
Florence Bascom was a pioneer for women in geology and education in America. She earned two bachelor’s degrees, a master’s degree, and became the second woman to earn a PhD in geology in the United States. Bascom’s innovative findings in the field of geology and her influential role in developing the geology department at the University of Wisconsin have led her to be considered the “first woman geologist in America.”
Flora Philip
Flora Philip (1865-1943) was a Scottish mathematician known for her pioneering work in the field. Despite facing numerous challenges, she became one of the first women to receive a degree from the University of Edinburgh and the first female member of the Edinburgh Mathematical Society. Her dedication and determination paved the way for future generations of women in mathematics.
Janice E. Voss
Janice Elaine Voss was an American engineer and NASA astronaut. She achieved great success in the field of space exploration, flying in space five times. Her dedication to her work and her accomplishments as an astronaut have left an indelible mark on the field of space exploration.
Latanya Sweeney
Latanya Arvette Sweeney is a groundbreaking American computer scientist known for her research in data privacy. She is currently a professor at Harvard University and the founder of the Public Interest Tech Lab. Sweeney’s most notable achievement is the development of k-anonymity, which sparked a national conversation on data privacy. She has also had a significant impact on public policy and is committed to mentoring underrepresented groups in computer science. Sweeney has received numerous awards for her contributions to the field and continues to inspire others in technology and advocacy.
Thérèse Kirongozi
Thérèse Izay Kirongozi, a Congolese industrial engineer, gained recognition for her groundbreaking work in designing and implementing traffic robots in Kinshasa. Her robots were deployed in multiple locations and aimed to enforce traffic rules and generate revenue for infrastructure development. Kirongozi’s innovative work has had a significant impact on traffic regulation and enforcement in the Democratic Republic of Congo, breaking through gender barriers and inspiring women worldwide.
Olga Guramishvili-Nikoladze
Olga Guramishvili-Nikoladze was a pioneering Georgian biologist and educator. She was one of the first Georgian women to study abroad, earning a degree in pedagogy. Guramishvili founded a girls’ school and a women’s gymnasium in Didi Jikhaishi, where she introduced sericulture and taught mechanical knitting and weaving. Her contributions to education and women’s rights left a lasting impact on Georgian society.
Jess Wade
Jessica Alice Feinmann Wade BEM, a British physicist, is known for her groundbreaking work in Raman spectroscopy and her research on polymer-based organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs). Wade’s passion for science was influenced by her family’s background in medicine. She obtained her Master of Science and Ph.D. in physics from Imperial College London and has published her research findings in esteemed scientific journals. Wade is not only a successful scientist but also an advocate for gender equality in STEM fields. Her dedication has earned her the prestigious British Empire Medal.
Hertha Ayrton
Hertha Ayrton, a British engineer, mathematician, physicist, inventor, and suffragette, made significant contributions to various fields. Her passion for learning led her to study mathematics at Cambridge and excel academically. Her inventions and research in electrical engineering gained recognition, and she actively campaigned for women’s rights as a respected scientist.
Kimberly Bryant
Kimberly Bryant, an American electrical engineer, founded Black Girls Code, an organization focused on providing technology and computer programming education to African-American girls. Born and raised in Memphis, Tennessee during the Civil Rights Movement, Bryant’s passion for technology led her to establish a nonprofit that aims to address the underrepresentation of African-American women in the tech industry. Her efforts have been recognized, and she was listed as one of the “25 Most Influential African-Americans in Technology” by Business Insider.
Megan Squire
Megan Squire is a professor of computer science at Elon University, specializing in the study of right-wing political extremism online. She has conducted extensive research on platforms like Facebook and Telegram, shedding light on the ways in which they shape and mediate extremist ideologies. Her work has been referenced in lawsuits against Facebook, highlighting the platform’s failure to address the proliferation of extremist groups. Squire’s investigations have also revealed the financial ecosystem surrounding these groups and their ability to generate income through video livestreaming and gaming platforms. In addition to her academic pursuits, Squire has been involved in activism throughout her life and is recognized as one of the strongest allies of the Antifa movement.
Jedidah Isler
Jedidah C. Isler is the first African-American woman to earn a PhD in astrophysics from Yale University. Her research focuses on the study of blazars and the jet streams they emit. Isler is a passionate advocate for diversity in STEM fields and has made significant contributions to advancing representation in scientific research and education. Currently, she serves as an assistant professor of Astrophysics at Dartmouth College and was appointed as a member of Joe Biden’s presidential transition Agency Review Team for the National Aeronautics and Space Administration in 2020.
Dorcas Muthoni
Dorcas Muthoni, born in 1979 in Nyeri, Kenya, is a remarkable entrepreneur, computer scientist, and founder of OPENWORLD LTD, a software consulting company she established at the young age of 24. With a profound commitment to using technology to transform African society, governments, and enterprises, Muthoni has made significant contributions to the field of computer science and paved the way for technological innovation in Africa.
Ellen Gleditsch
Ellen Gleditsch was a pioneering radiochemist from Norway, known for her groundbreaking research on radium and isotopes. Despite facing challenges as a woman in a male-dominated field, she persevered and became Norway’s second female professor. Her contributions to radiochemistry and advocacy for gender equality have left a lasting impact on the scientific community and society as a whole.
Cassie Kozyrkov
Cassie Kozyrkov is a South African data scientist and statistician who has made significant contributions to the field of decision intelligence. She currently serves as the Chief Decision Scientist at Google, where she founded the field of Decision Intelligence. Kozyrkov’s work has had a profound impact on the world of data science and her achievements have established her as a renowned figure in the field.
Winifred Edgerton Merrill
Winifred Edgerton Merrill, a pioneer in mathematics, was the first woman to receive a degree from Columbia University and the first American woman to earn a Ph.D. in mathematics. Growing up in a supportive environment, she developed a strong interest in astronomy and later pursued her studies at Columbia University. Her groundbreaking achievements inspired future generations of women in academia.
Abbie Hutty
Abigail Hutty is a distinguished British mechanical engineer who has made significant contributions to the field. Not only has she been the lead structures engineer on the European Space Agency ExoMars rover, she also became the youngest Fellow of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers. In addition to her technical achievements, Hutty is passionate about inspiring young minds and promoting careers in the space industry.
Doris Malkin Curtis
Doris Malkin Curtis, the first woman president of the Geological Society of America, was an American paleontologist, stratigrapher, and geologist. She made significant contributions to the Scripps Institution of Oceanography and had a successful career in the petroleum industry. Despite facing numerous challenges, Curtis pushed the boundaries and became a role model for women in the field of geology.
Louise Stokes Hunter
Ella Louise Stokes Hunter, a renowned American mathematics educator, dedicated her life to teaching and mentoring students. With a passion for mathematics and education, she became the first African-American woman to earn a degree from Harvard University. Her groundbreaking achievements and unwavering commitment to the field of education continue to inspire and shape the field of mathematics education today.
Carol Shaw
Carol Shaw (born 1955) is one of the first female game designers and programmers in the video game industry. She is best known for creating the Atari 2600 vertically scrolling shooter River Raid (1982) for Activision. Shaw’s contributions to the gaming industry were groundbreaking and have had a lasting impact on the evolution of video games.
Frances Eliza Babbitt
Frances “Franc” Eliza Babbitt (1824–1891) was a schoolteacher in Minnesota and an archaeologist who significantly influenced early debates about the Paleolithic Era in North America, also known as the “American Paleolithic”. Babbitt’s pioneering work in archaeology, particularly her collection and analysis of quartz tools and other artifacts from the Little Falls, Minnesota area, earned her recognition as one of the few women actively participating in this scientific discipline at the time. She made history as one of the first women to join the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) in 1883, thanks to the support and recognition from Frederic W. Putnam. Her work and perseverance as an archaeologist challenged gender norms in the field, highlighting her enduring influence on women’s history.
Marie Tharp
Marie Tharp, an American geologist and oceanographic cartographer, made groundbreaking contributions to the field of earth science. Her collaboration with geologist Bruce Heezen produced the first scientific map of the Atlantic Ocean floor, revealing the Mid-Atlantic Ridge and providing evidence for plate tectonics. Despite facing skepticism and discrimination, Tharp’s dedication and persistence allowed her to pave the way for women in science and revolutionize our understanding of Earth’s geology. Her legacy continues to inspire scientists and women in STEM fields worldwide.
Kate Edwards
Kate Edwards (born c. 1965) is a geographer, writer, and content culturalization strategist, most active in information-based cartography and video game content. She has made significant contributions to the fields of geography, cartography, and video game development throughout her career.
Helen Sawyer Hogg
Helen Battles Sawyer Hogg was an American-Canadian astronomer who paved the way for research into globular clusters and variable stars. She was a trailblazer in the field, being the first female president of several astronomical organizations, and advocating for women in science. Her contributions to astronomy and her dedication to mentoring aspiring scientists made her a beloved figure in the scientific community.
Tanya X. Short
Tanya X. Short, an influential American video game designer, co-founded Kitfox Games and has made significant contributions to the gaming industry. Her passion for gaming grew during her teenage years, leading her to pursue a career in the video game industry. Short is known for her dedication to inclusivity and has actively advocated for gender diversity and representation in game development. Her innovative approach to game design, as showcased in titles like Shattered Planet and Moon Hunters, has solidified her position as a trailblazer in the industry.
Chi Onwurah
Chinyelu Susan Onwurah, better known as Chi Onwurah, was born on April 12, 1965, in Wallsend, North Tyneside. She is a prominent British Labour Party politician who has been serving as the Member of Parliament for Newcastle upon Tyne Central since 2010. Onwurah’s mother hailed from Newcastle, while her father, originally from Nigeria, was studying at Newcastle University Medical School to become a dentist when they met and married in the 1950s.
Cathleen Synge Morawetz
Cathleen Synge Morawetz was a Canadian mathematician known for her significant contributions to the field of mathematics, particularly in the study of the partial differential equations governing fluid flow. Her groundbreaking work in transonic flow challenged existing beliefs and paved the way for advancements in aircraft design. As a pioneering woman in mathematics, Morawetz’s legacy inspires future generations of mathematicians worldwide. She received the National Medal of Science in 1998 for her exceptional contributions to the field.
Andrea M. Ghez
Andrea Mia Ghez, born on June 16, 1965, in New York City, is an esteemed astrophysicist known for her groundbreaking work on the center of the Milky Way galaxy. Her research on the supermassive black hole, Sagittarius A*, has deepened our understanding of black holes’ structure and behavior. Ghez’s achievements have earned her numerous accolades and recognition, including the Nobel Prize in Physics in 2020. Her dedication and passion have inspired countless individuals, especially young women, to pursue careers in STEM fields.
Yolanda Ortiz
Yolanda Ortiz was a pioneering Argentine doctor of chemistry and the first Secretary of Natural Resources and Human Environment in Argentina. She dedicated her life to addressing environmental issues and advocating for sustainable development. Despite facing exile and challenges, Ortiz founded an ecological organization and continued her advocacy work until her passing in 2019. Her contributions have left a lasting impact on Argentina and Latin America.
Catherine Heymans
Catherine Heymans FRSE is a renowned British astrophysicist who has made significant contributions to the field of cosmology. She currently holds the esteemed title of Astronomer Royal for Scotland and serves as a professor at the University of Edinburgh, based at the Royal Observatory in Edinburgh. Born and raised in Hitchin, Hertfordshire, Heymans’ passion for astronomy was ignited at a young age.
Grace Hopper
Grace Brewster Hopper was an American computer scientist, mathematician, and United States Navy rear admiral. She was a pioneer of computer programming and one of the first programmers of the Harvard Mark I computer. Hopper made significant contributions to the field, including the invention of one of the first linkers. Her legacy as a computer scientist and mathematician continues to inspire and influence the world of technology.
Karen Nyberg
Karen LuJean Nyberg, born on October 7, 1969, is an American mechanical engineer and retired NASA astronaut. With a remarkable career in space exploration, Nyberg became the 50th woman to venture into space on her inaugural mission in 2008. Her journey in the cosmos spanned a total of 180 days, with missions in 2008 and 2013, solidifying her place in history.
Hadiyah-Nicole Green
Hadiyah-Nicole Green is an American medical physicist known for her groundbreaking research using laser-activated nanoparticles as a potential cancer treatment. She has not only excelled in her field but has also become a strong advocate for Historically Black Colleges and Universities and increasing diversity in STEM fields. Green’s dedication to her work and commitment to making a difference in the lives of others make her a true trailblazer in women’s history.
Charlotte Barnum
Charlotte Cynthia Barnum, a distinguished mathematician and social activist, broke barriers in academia as the first woman to earn a PhD in mathematics from Yale University. Her love for learning and passion for mathematics guided her throughout her life, leading to groundbreaking achievements and inspiring future generations of women in STEM fields.
Sophie Germain
Marie-Sophie Germain was a notable French mathematician, physicist, and philosopher who defied societal barriers to become a pioneer in mathematics. Despite facing opposition and lacking formal education, she taught herself mathematics using her father’s library and corresponded with renowned mathematicians under a pseudonym. Germain made significant contributions to elasticity theory and worked on Fermat’s Last Theorem. Her achievements were not fully recognized during her lifetime, but her legacy has inspired future generations of mathematicians, particularly women, to pursue their passions relentlessly.
Frieda Nugel
Frieda Nugel (1884–1966) was a German mathematician and civil rights activist. She was one of the first German women to earn a doctorate in mathematics. Despite facing numerous challenges in her career, Nugel made significant contributions to the field of mathematics and actively promoted civil rights and better education for women. She retired in 1945 and passed away in 1966, leaving behind a legacy of academic excellence and advocacy for women’s rights.
Tamara E. Jernigan
Tamara Elizabeth “Tammy” Jernigan is an American astrophysicist and former NASA astronaut. She completed five Space Shuttle program missions and logged over 1512 hours in space. Jernigan left NASA in 2001 and currently holds a position at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory.
Nina Vedeneyeva
Nina Yevgenyevna Vedeneyeva, a renowned physicist, dedicated her life to the study of mineral crystals and their coloration. Her research and inventions made significant contributions to the understanding of mineral crystals and their interaction with light. Additionally, she played a crucial role in the field of optical crystallography. Vedeneyeva’s work earned her prestigious awards, including the Stalin Prize and the Order of Lenin. Her impact on the scientific community and her role as the last partner of poet Sophia Parnok solidify her place in women’s history.
Evelyn Boyd Granville
Evelyn Boyd Granville overcame challenges to become the second African-American woman to earn a Ph.D. in mathematics from an American university. She made significant contributions to mathematics and computer science, inspiring future generations of women in STEM fields.
Icie Hoobler
Icie Gertrude Macy Hoobler was an American biochemist dedicated to researching human nutrition, with a focus on the well-being of mothers and children. Despite facing discrimination, she became the first woman to chair a local section of the American Chemical Society and received 22 prestigious awards for her groundbreaking research. Her passion for science and concern for children’s wellness stemmed from her upbringing on a farm in Missouri and a formative experience with sick children in Arkansas. Hoobler’s resilience and advocacy continue to inspire generations of scientists.
Dení Ramírez Macías, Ph.D.
Dení Ramírez Macías, Ph.D., is a Mexican marine biologist, ocean scientist, and conservationist. She is widely recognized for her expertise in whale shark research and conservation. Throughout her career, Ramírez has made significant contributions to the understanding and protection of these magnificent creatures.
Linda M. Godwin
Linda Maxine Godwin Ph.D. was a pioneering American scientist and NASA astronaut. Growing up in Jackson, Missouri, her passion for space and science flourished early on, leading her to pursue a career in the field. As an astronaut, she made significant contributions to space exploration, completed four space flights, and garnered numerous awards and honors. Beyond her remarkable accomplishments, Godwin’s impact on society as a woman in a predominantly male-dominated field is immeasurable. She shattered gender barriers, challenged stereotypes, and continues to inspire future generations of scientists.
Nicole Marthe Le Douarin
Nicole Marthe Le Douarin, born in 1930 in Lorient, France, is a renowned developmental biologist known for her groundbreaking studies on chimeras. Her innovative techniques and discoveries have shed light on the development of complex systems in higher animals. Le Douarin’s passion for research and her determination to overcome challenges have made her a respected scientist in the field of developmental biology.
Ruby Payne-Scott
Ruby Violet Payne-Scott was an Australian pioneer in radiophysics and radio astronomy. She made significant contributions to radar technology and radio astronomy, focusing on solar observations. Despite facing gender discrimination and bias, Payne-Scott persevered and continued to make groundbreaking discoveries. Her work has left a lasting impact on society and has inspired countless individuals, particularly women, to pursue careers in STEM fields.
Ruzena Bajcsy
Ruzena Bajcsy, an American engineer and computer scientist specializing in robotics, has made significant contributions to the field throughout her career. Born in 1933 in Bratislava, which was then part of Czechoslovakia and is now Slovakia, she grew up in a Jewish family. While her father’s work as a civil engineer initially spared her family from Nazi concentration camps, tragically, most of her adult relatives were killed by the Nazis in late 1944.
Danielle Belgrave
Danielle Charlotte Belgrave is a Trinidadian-British computer scientist based at DeepMind, who uses statistics and machine learning to understand the progression of diseases. Belgrave grew up in Trinidad and Tobago, where her high school mathematics teacher inspired her to work as a data scientist. She pursued her passion by studying statistics and business at the London School of Economics (LSE).
Nina Frances Layard
Nina Frances Layard FSA FLS was an English poet, prehistorian, archaeologist, and antiquarian who conducted important excavations, and by winning the respect of contemporary academics helped to establish a role for women in her field of expertise. Her groundbreaking accomplishments not only established a role for women in her field but also paved the way for future generations of female archaeologists and prehistorians.
Lizymol Philipose Pamadykandathil
Lizymol Philipose Pamadykandathil, an Indian dental materials scientist, has made significant contributions to the field of dental materials science through her groundbreaking research. Her innovative work in developing bioactive polymers and polymer-based composite materials for dental restoration and bone cement for fixing implants has greatly improved dental procedures and patient outcomes. Her dedication and accomplishments have earned her prestigious awards and patents, solidifying her place as a trailblazing scientist in the scientific community.
Margaret Hamilton
Margaret Hamilton was an American computer scientist and systems engineer who made significant contributions to software engineering. She coined the term “software engineering” to distinguish software development from other forms of engineering. Margaret Hamilton was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2016 for her groundbreaking work in developing on-board flight software for NASA’s Apollo Moon missions.
Ruth Aaronson Bari
Ruth Aaronson Bari (1917-2005) was an American mathematician known for her work in graph theory and algebraic homomorphisms. She dedicated herself to raising her family before returning to earn her Ph.D. in mathematics at the age of 47. Bari’s contributions to graph theory and homomorphisms were highly regarded, and she actively advocated for gender equality in academia. Her legacy lives on through the students she taught.
Dilma Rousseff
Dilma Vana Rousseff was the 36th president of Brazil, serving from 2011 until her impeachment in 2016. She made history as the first woman to hold the Brazilian presidency. Rousseff grew up in Belo Horizonte, developed socialist beliefs, and participated in left-wing groups fighting against the military dictatorship. She had a successful political career, focusing on social programs and infrastructure development during her presidency. Despite facing challenges and impeachment, Rousseff remains an influential figure in women’s history. No official awards or recognitions have been documented.
Penny Sackett
Penny Diane Sackett is an American-born Australian astronomer and former director of the Research School of Astronomy and Astrophysics at the Australian National University. She was the Chief Scientist of Australia from 2008 to 2011. Sackett’s research has made significant contributions to the field of astrophysics, focusing on planetary systems, gravitational lensing, and dark matter.
Ellen Johnson Sirleaf
Ellen Johnson Sirleaf (born Ellen Eugenia Johnson, 29 October 1938) is a Liberian politician who made history as the 24th president of Liberia from 2006 to 2018. Known as the “Iron Lady,” Sirleaf was the first elected female head of state in Africa.
Cora Ratto de Sadosky
Corina (Cora) Eloísa Ratto de Sadosky was an Argentine mathematician, educator, and militant activist. She played a vital role in supporting democratic interests during the Spanish Civil War and aiding victims of Falangist oppression. Ratto also founded the anti-fascist Junta de la Victoria during World War II and established Columna 10, a journal denouncing the United States’ conduct in the Vietnam War. Moreover, Ratto’s contributions to mathematics education were significant, as she published essential textbooks and advanced the field worldwide. Her commitment to human rights and pursuit of knowledge left a profound impact on society.
Ida Noddack
Ida Noddack, a German chemist and physicist, made groundbreaking contributions to the field of science. She was the first to mention the concept of nuclear fission and, alongside her husband and Otto Berg, discovered element 75, rhenium. Despite being nominated three times for the Nobel Prize in Chemistry, Noddack’s achievements were often overlooked. Her critical analysis of scientific discoveries and insights into nuclear fission were instrumental in the development of nuclear energy.
Agnes Hsu-Tang
Agnes Hsin Mei Hsu-Tang, an archaeologist and art historian, was born in Taiwan and later became an American citizen. She has made significant contributions to the field of cultural heritage protection and rescue, advocating for the preservation of precious artifacts and historical sites.
Mary Nicholas Arnoldy
Mary Nicholas Arnoldy (1893–1985) was a Roman Catholic Sister of St. Joseph of Concordia (Kansas), and a mathematician. Along with M. Henrietta Reilly and Mary Domitilla Thuener, she was one of a very few women and Catholic sisters to earn a doctorate in mathematics before 1940.
Hilda Petrie
Hilda Mary Isabel, Lady Petrie was a British Egyptologist whose contributions to Egyptology as an artist and archaeologist were significant and enduring. She worked closely with her husband, Flinders Petrie, on numerous excavations in Egypt and Palestine, using her artistic skills to record hieroglyphs and create plans of the sites. Hilda also played a crucial role in advocating for women in the field of archaeology, defying societal expectations and challenging the notion that women were mere onlookers.
María Luisa Aguilar
María Luisa Aguilar Hurtado (1938-2015) was a Peruvian astronomer and the first professional astronomer of Peru. She founded and served as the director of the “Astronomy and Astrophysics Seminar,” now known as the “Permanent Astronomy and Space Sciences Seminar” of the National University of San Marcos. Aguilar specialized in astronomical spectroscopy, stellar atmospheres, and variable stars. She contributed significantly to the field of astronomy in Peru, promoting education and outreach programs. Despite her achievements, no awards or recognitions have been listed for her.
Eileen Collins
Eileen Marie Collins, the first woman to pilot the Space Shuttle and command a Space Shuttle mission, had a passion for aviation and space exploration from a young age. She accomplished remarkable feats throughout her groundbreaking career, inspiring future generations of women in the field of space exploration.
K. Megan McArthur
Megan McArthur, an American oceanographer, engineer, and NASA astronaut, has made significant contributions to space exploration. Her journey to becoming an astronaut started with a strong academic background and she has been a part of missions that have shaped our understanding of the universe. McArthur’s dedication and expertise have made her an influential figure in both women’s history and the world of space exploration.
Dita Přikrylová
Dita Přikrylová is a Czech software engineer and social entrepreneur. She founded Czechitas, a non-profit organization that provides technical education and networking opportunities for women and youth in information technologies. Přikrylová’s commitment to bridging the gender gap in the tech industry has made a significant impact on society. She has received numerous awards for her work, including the European Citizen’s Prize and the South by Southwest Community Service Award.
P.K. Thressia
P.K. Thressia (1924-1981) was the first female chief engineer in India and a pioneering Civil Engineer. She overcame societal barriers to pursue a career in engineering, graduating in 1944. Throughout her career, Thressia made significant contributions to road construction projects and infrastructure development, revolutionizing road surface materials and overseeing the construction of numerous bridges. Her resilience and determination continue to inspire future generations of women in the field.
María Andrea Casamayor
María Andrea Casamayor de La Coma, born in Saragossa, Spain in 1720, was a Spanish mathematician, writer, and girls’ school teacher. Her significant contributions to arithmetic challenged the prevailing notion that mathematics was the exclusive domain of men, and she became one of the few 18th century Spanish women scientists and mathematicians whose work has been preserved.
Yi So-yeon
Yi So-yeon, the first Korean to venture into space, made history with her space journey in 2008. Raised in Gwangju, South Korea, Yi’s passion for science and space led her to excel in her studies and pursue a career in mechanics. Her historic achievement has not only expanded our knowledge of space but also inspired future generations of South Korean astronauts.
Margaret Eliza Maltby
Margaret Eliza Maltby was an American physicist who achieved several notable firsts for women in academia. She was the first woman to earn a Bachelor of Science degree from MIT and the first woman to earn a Ph.D. in physics from a German university. Maltby made significant contributions to the field of physics, particularly in the measurement of high electrolytic resistances and conductivity of very dilute solutions. She was also a passionate advocate for women in physics, using her position to support women pursuing formal education in the field.
Mildred Dresselhaus
Mildred Dresselhaus, known as the “Queen of Carbon Science,” made significant contributions to the understanding of carbon and its applications. As a trailblazer for women in science, she had a remarkable career spanning over six decades, inspiring future generations. Her groundbreaking research, leadership, and commitment to diversity continue to shape the scientific community.
Tatyana Afanasyeva
Tatyana Alexeyevna Afanasyeva was a Russian/Dutch mathematician and physicist who made significant contributions to statistical mechanics. Despite the limitations imposed on women at the time, she pursued her education and eventually settled in Leiden, where she collaborated with her husband, Paul Ehrenfest, and made groundbreaking advancements in the field. Her work attracted the attention of renowned physicist Albert Einstein, solidifying her legacy in the scientific community.
Sian Proctor
Sian Hayley “Leo” Proctor made history as the first Black woman to pilot a spacecraft during the Inspiration4 private orbital spaceflight in September 2021. With a background in geology and science education, she has been dedicated to fostering scientific curiosity and inspiring the next generation of explorers. Through her achievements, she has broken barriers and made space more accessible and inclusive.
Katharine Burr Blodgett
Katharine Burr Blodgett was an American physicist and chemist who made significant contributions to the field of surface chemistry. She is best known for her invention of “invisible” or nonreflective glass while working at General Electric. Blodgett was a trailblazer in her field, becoming the first woman to be awarded a PhD in physics from the University of Cambridge in 1926.
Idelisa Bonnelly
Idelisa Bonnelly de Calventi, known as the “mother of marine conservation in the Caribbean,” was a Dominican marine biologist. She founded the study of biology in the Dominican Republic and played a key role in the creation of the first Humpback Whale Sanctuary in the North Atlantic. Her contributions to marine conservation earned her numerous awards and recognition.
Ellen Swallow Richards
Ellen Henrietta Swallow Richards, a pioneer in engineering, chemistry, and home economics, was born on December 3, 1842, in Dunstable, Massachusetts. Her passion for education and knowledge led her to become the first woman admitted to the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and the first American woman to earn a degree in chemistry. Richards revolutionized public health through her research on water quality and made significant contributions to the field of home economics. Despite facing challenges as a woman in a male-dominated society, she persisted in advancing women’s roles in science and technology.
Irena Sawicka
Irena Scheur-Sawicka, born on August 18, 1890, was a remarkable Polish archaeologist, ethnographer, educational activist, and communist. Her brave actions during World War II, including assisting Jewish refugees from the Warsaw Ghetto, exemplify her unwavering dedication to justice. Despite meeting an untimely demise during the Warsaw Uprising in 1944, Irena Sawicka’s legacy of courage and sacrifice continues to inspire in Polish history.
Beatrice Tinsley
Beatrice Muriel Hill Tinsley, a British-born New Zealand astronomer, made significant contributions to the understanding of galaxy evolution. Despite facing numerous challenges throughout her career, including struggling to secure a permanent academic position, Tinsley became the first female professor of astronomy at Yale University. Tragically, her promising career was cut short when she passed away from melanoma in 1981. She left behind a lasting legacy in the field of astronomy.
Margaret Murray
Margaret Alice Murray (1863-1963) was an Anglo-Indian Egyptologist, archaeologist, anthropologist, historian, and folklorist who left an indelible mark on her field through groundbreaking contributions. Her achievements include being the first woman appointed as a lecturer in archaeology in the United Kingdom and her significant discoveries in Egyptology. Murray’s passion for understanding ancient civilizations and advancing the status of women in academia made her a trailblazer and a pioneer in her field.
Catharine Garmany
Catharine “Katy” D. Garmany, born in 1946, is an accomplished astronomer who has made significant contributions to the field of astrophysics. Her research focuses on massive stars and their evolution and formation, as well as astronomical education. Garmany’s expertise has earned her recognition within the scientific community and beyond, inspiring future generations of astronomers. She received the prestigious Annie J. Cannon Award in Astronomy from the American Astronomical Society in 1976.
Joan Clarke
Joan Clarke was a brilliant English cryptanalyst and numismatist who made significant contributions to the Enigma project at Bletchley Park during World War II. She overcame gender barriers in her field and played a crucial role in breaking the German Enigma Code. Her legacy as a pioneering female cryptanalyst continues to inspire future generations in mathematics and code-breaking.
Joan du Plat Taylor
Joan Mabel Frederica du Plat Taylor, born in Glasgow, Scotland in 1906, was a trailblazing British archaeologist who revolutionized underwater nautical archaeology. Despite lacking formal training, she made significant archaeological discoveries during her time as Assistant Curator at the Cyprus Museum. She co-directed an excavation at Cape Gelidonya in 1960, which marked a turning point in nautical archaeology. Joan also founded the Nautical Archaeology Society and played a pivotal role in founding the Council for Nautical Archaeology, leaving a lasting impact on the field.
Elda Emma Anderson
Elda Emma Anderson was an American physicist and health researcher who made significant contributions to nuclear physics. Her pioneering work on the Manhattan Project and at Los Alamos National Laboratory played a crucial role in the development of atomic energy. Anderson’s dedication to research and her preparation of the first sample of pure uranium-235 were groundbreaking achievements. Her commitment to scientific inquiry opened doors for future generations of women in physics.
Williamina Fleming
Williamina Paton Stevens Fleming was a Scottish-American astronomer who overcame hardships to make significant contributions to the field of astronomy. Working at the Harvard College Observatory, she was appointed the head of the Henry Draper Catalogue project and developed a simplified system for star classification. Fleming’s work included cataloging thousands of stars, discovering the Horsehead Nebula, and advancing the field of astronomy for future generations. She received several awards for her achievements, breaking barriers for women in science.
Grace Banu
Grace Banu is an Indian software engineer and transgender activist who has made significant contributions to both the LGBTQ+ community and the fight against caste discrimination. Born and raised in the Tuticorin district of Tamil Nadu, Banu belongs to the Dalit community, a historically marginalized group in India. From an early age, Banu faced discrimination and untouchability due to both her caste and gender identity.
Olivia Hooker
Olivia Juliette Hooker, born in 1915 in Muskogee, Oklahoma, overcame adversity from a young age, surviving the Tulsa race massacre in 1921. She became the first African-American woman to join the U.S. Coast Guard and made significant contributions to the field of psychology. Her resilience and trailblazing achievements continue to inspire others.
Melanie Rieback
Melanie R. Rieback is a renowned computer scientist known for her groundbreaking work in the field of privacy and security of radio-frequency identification (RFID) technology. Born on October 26, 1978, in Cleveland, Ohio, Melanie spent her formative years in Florida.
Aïssata Issoufou Mahamadou
Aïssata Issoufou Mahamadou is a Nigerien chemist, chemical engineer, mining specialist, and healthcare advocate. She served as the First Lady of the Republic of Niger from April 7, 2011, to April 2, 2021. A trailblazer for women in Niger in the sciences, she contributed significantly to the development of the mining sector. Aïssata Issoufou Mahamadou also worked to improve access to healthcare, empower women, and alleviate poverty in Niger. Her dedication has left a lasting impact.
Ana Aslan
Ana Aslan was a Romanian biologist and physician known for her groundbreaking research in the field of gerontology. She developed the drug Gerovital (H3) to combat the effects of aging and conducted extensive research to prove its efficacy. Her work challenged prevailing notions about aging and improved the quality of life for older individuals. Ana Aslan’s contributions to medicine make her an influential figure in women’s history.
Marsha Ivins
Marsha Sue Ivins, born in Baltimore, Maryland in 1951, is an American retired astronaut and a veteran of five Space Shuttle missions. She is widely recognized for her significant contributions to NASA and her remarkable achievements in space exploration.
Phyllis Ann Wallace
Phyllis Ann Wallace (1921–1993) was a distinguished African American economist and activist, known for her groundbreaking work in combating workplace discrimination and promoting economic equality. She became the first woman to receive a doctorate of economics at Yale University and played a crucial role in shaping the anti-discrimination provisions of the landmark Civil Rights Act of 1964. Wallace’s dedication to economic issues and her unwavering commitment to equal opportunity make her a significant figure in women’s history.
Nuria Oliver
Nuria Oliver is a renowned computer scientist who has made significant contributions to the field through her groundbreaking research and leadership roles in various institutions. She has played a crucial role in advancing our understanding of human behavior through computational models, human-computer interaction, mobile computing, and big data for social good.
Beatrice Aitchison
Beatrice Aitchison (1908-1997) was an American mathematician, statistician, and transportation economist. She played a crucial role in shaping transportation policies in the United States and made significant contributions to her field. Aitchison’s remarkable journey from academia to government service underscored her determination, intelligence, and commitment to public service, helping to improve the efficiency of government and postal operations. Her contributions continue to inspire and influence generations of mathematicians, economists, and policymakers.
Gretchen Kalonji
Gretchen Lynn Kalonji, born in 1953 in Chicago, Illinois, is an American materials scientist and academic administrator. Throughout her career, she has made significant contributions to the field of materials science and has held notable positions in academia and international organizations. Kalonji’s diverse upbringing and experiences in different cultures have shaped her perspectives and fostered her curiosity. She is also known for her activism, particularly in advocating against apartheid in South Africa.
Helen Murray Free
Helen Murray Free was an American chemist and educator who revolutionized in vitro self-testing systems for diseases like diabetes. Her work at Miles Laboratories allowed individuals to obtain reliable test results without the need for laboratories. She was also dedicated to scientific education and inspiring young women to pursue careers in STEM fields. Helen Murray Free’s contributions continue to shape the world today.
Marcia McNutt
Marcia Kemper McNutt (born February 19, 1952) is an American geophysicist and the 22nd president of the National Academy of Sciences (NAS) of the United States. She has made significant contributions to the field of geophysics and has played a crucial role in shaping environmental policy and promoting science education.
Lois Aileen Bey
Lois Aileen Bey, an American chemical engineer, faced sexism throughout her life but went on to make history as the first woman to graduate from the chemical engineering program at Illinois Institute of Technology. Her determination and resilience have inspired countless individuals to pursue their passions and overcome obstacles. Bey’s groundbreaking accomplishment challenged societal norms and paved the way for future generations of women in engineering and STEM fields.
Lyudmila Chernykh
Lyudmila Chernykh, a renowned Russian-Soviet astronomer, dedicated her life to the study of celestial objects and made significant contributions to the field of astronomy. Her impressive discoveries of minor planets, numbering 267 in total, solidify her place in astronomical history and have expanded humanity’s knowledge of the Solar System. Chernykh’s tireless efforts and pursuit of knowledge have left an indelible mark on the scientific community and continue to inspire future generations of astronomers.
Eleanor Pairman
Eleanor “Nora” Pairman, a Scottish mathematician, made significant contributions to mathematics education for blind students. She overcame personal hardships and excelled academically, earning a scholarship to pursue further studies. Pairman eventually obtained a doctorate in mathematics, becoming only the third woman to do so at Radcliffe College. Later, she dedicated herself to teaching mathematics to blind students, creating innovative methods to convey mathematical concepts. Pairman’s pioneering work had a lasting impact on the field of mathematics education, inspiring future educators and blind individuals alike.
Winnie Byanyima
Winifred Byanyima, also known as Winnie Byanyima, is a Ugandan aeronautical engineer, politician, human rights activist, feminist, and diplomat. Born in 1959 in Mbarara District, Uganda, she has made significant contributions to engineering, politics, and gender equality throughout her career. Byanyima’s dedication to fighting poverty and advocating for marginalized communities has made her a prominent figure in the pursuit of equality and justice.
Isabel Martin Lewis
Isabel Martin Lewis was an American astronomer who made significant contributions to the field of astronomy. She was the first woman hired by the United States Naval Observatory as an assistant astronomer and her work played a crucial role in advancing our understanding of the cosmos. Lewis’s dedication to science and her efforts to popularize astronomy have left a lasting impact on the field.
Kayla Barron
Kayla Jane Barron is an American submarine warfare officer, engineer, and NASA astronaut. She began her journey to becoming an astronaut in 2017 when she was selected as a member of NASA Astronaut Group 22. Barron’s first spaceflight was on November 10, 2021, as part of the SpaceX Crew-3 mission to the International Space Station. Her dedication, achievements, and desire to make a positive impact inspire many and serve as a role model for future generations.
Laura Greene
Laura H. Greene is the Marie Krafft Professor of Physics at Florida State University, Chief Scientist at the National High Magnetic Field Laboratory, and a renowned physicist. She is known for her research in condensed matter physics and has received numerous awards for her contributions to the field. Additionally, Greene is a passionate advocate for diversity and equal rights, particularly for women and minorities in STEM.
Siobhan Reddy
Siobhan Reddy is a South African-Australian video game executive who has made significant contributions to the gaming industry. Born in South Africa, she grew up in Campbelltown, New South Wales in Australia. It was during her time at Macarthur Anglican School in New South Wales that Reddy discovered her passion for filmmaking and technology.
Margaret G. Kivelson
Margaret Galland Kivelson, an American space physicist and planetary scientist, has made significant contributions to the field of space physics throughout her career. She is renowned for her research on the magnetospheres of Earth, Jupiter, and Saturn, as well as her exploration of Jupiter’s Galilean moons. With her expertise and dedication, Kivelson has left a lasting impact on the scientific community.
Lilia Ann Abron
Lilia Ann Abron is a trailblazing entrepreneur and chemical engineer who became the first African American woman to earn a PhD in chemical engineering. Born in 1945 in Memphis, Tennessee, Abron overcame racial segregation and pursued her passion for engineering. Throughout her career, she has made significant contributions to the field of environmental engineering and founded PEER Consultants, P.C. With her groundbreaking achievements, Abron has become an inspiration to future generations of engineers and women in STEM.
Mary Deconge
Mary Lovenia DeConge-Watson, born in 1933 in Wickliff, Louisiana, is an American mathematician and former nun. She is known for being the 15th African-American woman to earn her Ph.D. in mathematics. DeConge-Watson’s journey towards becoming a mathematician and her contributions to the field are both inspiring and significant.
Sophie Wilson
Sophie Mary Wilson, formerly known as Roger Wilson, is an English computer scientist who has made significant contributions to the field of technology. Her groundbreaking work in designing microcomputers, creating programming languages, and developing the ARM architecture has revolutionized the industry. Wilson’s dedication to computer education has paved the way for countless individuals to pursue careers in technology. Her achievements have earned her recognition as one of the most important women in tech history.
Rana el Kaliouby
Rana el Kaliouby is an Egyptian-American computer scientist and entrepreneur who has made significant contributions to the field of Emotion AI. With a passion for technology, she pursued her education in computer science and earned degrees from the American University in Cairo and Newnham College, Cambridge. As the CEO of Affectiva, she has revolutionized the way machines perceive and respond to human emotions, making her a pioneer in the field. Her groundbreaking work has garnered recognition and numerous accolades throughout her career, solidifying her position as a leader in the industry.
Dorothy Lewis Bernstein
Dorothy Lewis Bernstein (1914-1988) was an American mathematician known for her work in applied mathematics, statistics, computer programming, and research on the Laplace transform. She became the first woman to be elected president of the Mathematics Association of America, and made significant contributions to the field of mathematics throughout her career.
Frances Arnold
Frances Hamilton Arnold, an American chemical engineer and Nobel Laureate, has made significant contributions to the field of bioengineering. She currently holds the prestigious position of Linus Pauling Professor at the California Institute of Technology. In 2018, Arnold was awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry for her pioneering work in the use of directed evolution to engineer enzymes. Her groundbreaking research and commitment to advancing the field of bioengineering have solidified her position as one of the most respected and influential scientists of her time.
Anima Anandkumar
Anima Anandkumar, a prominent figure in computer science and artificial intelligence, is the Bren Professor of Computing at Caltech and the director of Machine Learning research at NVIDIA. She has made significant contributions to tensor-algebraic methods, deep learning, and non-convex problems. Anima’s curiosity and passion for knowledge were shaped by her family’s strong academic background. She is not only academically gifted but also an accomplished Bharatanatyam dancer. Anima’s pioneering work in machine learning has earned her recognition and accolades in the field. She is dedicated to advancing knowledge and promoting diversity in technology.
Jade Raymond
Jade Raymond, born in 1975 in Montreal, Canada, is a renowned video game creator and industry executive. She co-created the Assassin’s Creed franchise and contributed to the development of the Watch Dogs series. Raymond played a significant role in establishing Ubisoft Toronto and EA Motive Studios, solidifying her impact on the gaming industry.
Betelhem Dessie
Betelhem Dessie is an Ethiopian web and mobile technologies developer. Founder and CEO of iCog- Anyone Can Code (ACC) and holder of several patents, she is known as the “youngest pioneer in Ethiopia’s fast emerging tech scene.”
Kerrine Bryan
Kerrine Bryan, an engineer and author from the United Kingdom, is passionate about advocating for gender equality in STEM. She founded Butterfly Books and has written children’s books to challenge misconceptions about the engineering profession. Through her work, Bryan aims to inspire young readers to pursue their dreams and seize opportunities in the world of STEM.
Christine Ladd-Franklin
Christine Ladd-Franklin was an American psychologist, logician, and mathematician who made significant contributions to the fields of psychology and mathematics. Her groundbreaking research on color vision challenged prevailing beliefs, and she was recognized with an honorary doctorate from Vassar College in 1887. Ladd-Franklin’s determination and advocacy for women’s rights paved the way for future generations of women in STEM fields.
Margaret Burbidge
Eleanor Margaret Burbidge, known as Margaret Burbidge, was a British-American observational astronomer and astrophysicist. She was born on August 12, 1919, in Davenport, England. Burbidge was one of the leading figures in astrophysics and made significant contributions to our understanding of the universe.
Christina Koch
Christina Hammock Koch is an American engineer and NASA astronaut. She pursued her childhood dream of becoming an astronaut, earning two Bachelor of Science degrees in electrical engineering and physics from North Carolina State University. Koch made significant contributions to scientific instruments on various NASA missions and held diverse roles, including serving as a Research Associate in the United States Antarctic Program. In 2019, she made history as part of the first all-female spacewalk and broke the record for the longest continuous time spent in space by a woman. Koch’s achievements have solidified her place in women’s history and she continues to push the boundaries of space exploration as part of the Artemis II flight crew.
Verdiana Masanja
Verdiana Grace Masanja is a Tanzanian mathematician specializing in fluid dynamics. She became the first Tanzanian woman to earn a doctorate in mathematics. Her dedication to mathematics education and women’s empowerment has made her a significant figure in the field.
Heather Kelley
Heather Kelley (aka Moboid) is a media artist, writer, and video game designer. With a passion for pushing the boundaries of art and technology, she has made significant contributions to the world of game development and interactive media. Through her work, she has advocated for diversity and inclusivity in the gaming industry and has been a vocal proponent for the recognition of video games as an art form.
Yvonne Cagle
Yvonne Darlene Cagle (born April 24, 1959) is an American physician, professor, retired U.S. Air Force Colonel, and NASA Astronaut. Cagle joined NASA as an astronaut in 1996. She is one of six African American female astronauts.
Nüzhet Gökdoğan
Hatice Nüzhet Gökdoğan, born on August 14, 1910, in Istanbul, Turkey, was a remarkable figure in the fields of astronomy, mathematics, and academia. From her early years, Gökdoğan displayed an exceptional aptitude for mathematics and a keen interest in astronomy. She pursued these passions with determination, eventually establishing herself as a trailblazer for women in her field.
Klára Dán von Neumann
Klára Dán von Neumann, a Hungarian-American mathematician and computer scientist, was a pioneer in computer programming. She made significant contributions to the field, including programming the MANIAC I machine. Klára’s work on translating mathematical instructions into a computer language was crucial for its successful operation. Despite her groundbreaking achievements, she did not receive any official awards or recognitions.
Alice Bache Gould
Alice Bache Gould, an American mathematician, philanthropist, and historian, dedicated her life to making significant contributions to the fields of mathematics and Spanish-American studies. Despite facing setbacks in mathematics due to poor health, Alice followed her true interest in Spanish-American studies and became a respected historian. Her dedication to her work earned her recognition, including becoming the only female corresponding member of the Real Academia de la Historia and being awarded the Order of Isabella the Catholic. Alice never married or had children, but formed close friendships with several women, who provided support and companionship throughout her life.
Frances Spence
Frances V. Spence was one of the original programmers for the ENIAC, the first electronic digital computer. Alongside her female colleagues, she played a crucial role in the development of early computing. Despite their contributions, their work was largely downplayed at the time due to gender stereotypes. Frances Spence’s legacy as one of the first computer programmers continues to challenge gender stereotypes in technology.
Marguerite Williams
Marguerite Thomas Williams was the first African American to earn a doctorate in geology in the United States. Her groundbreaking research and dissertation focused on erosional processes and the risks of natural flooding. Despite facing discrimination and obstacles throughout her career, Williams made significant contributions to the field of geology and paved the way for future generations of women in science. She passed away on August 17, 1991, leaving behind a legacy of excellence and trailblazing achievements.
Cecilia Payne-Gaposchkin
Cecilia Payne-Gaposchkin was a British-born American astronomer and astrophysicist who revolutionized our understanding of stars and the universe. Her groundbreaking research challenged existing scientific beliefs and laid the foundation for modern astrophysics. Despite facing numerous obstacles in a male-dominated field, Payne’s determination and passion for astronomy propelled her to great heights, making her an enduring figure in the history of astronomy and astrophysics.
Alma Levant Hayden
Alma Levant Hayden, an American chemist, was a pioneering figure in the field of science. Making significant contributions to spectroscopy, she became one of the first African-American women to hold a scientist position at a science agency in Washington, D.C. Her research on Krebiozen further contributed to increased drug safety regulations. Her achievements continue to inspire future generations in the field of chemistry.
Nina Bari
Nina Karlovna Bari, a prominent Soviet mathematician, made significant contributions to the field of trigonometric series. Her two influential textbooks, “Higher Algebra” and “The Theory of Series,” solidified her place in the history of mathematics. Despite the challenges faced by women in academia, Bari’s remarkable achievements and dedication to her work have inspired generations of mathematicians, especially women, to thrive.
Laurel B. Clark
Laurel Blair Clark (née Salton; March 10, 1961 – February 1, 2003) was a NASA astronaut, medical doctor, United States Navy captain, and Space Shuttle mission specialist. She was a remarkable woman who made significant contributions to both the field of medicine and space exploration.
Laila Haglund
Laila Haglund, a Swedish archaeologist, made significant contributions to Australian archaeology and the preservation of Aboriginal cultural heritage. Her expertise and research in classical archaeology led her to explore prehistory and conservation, ultimately resulting in her pioneering work in Australia. Haglund conducted extensive salvage excavations, published a groundbreaking report, and played a key role in drafting legislation to protect Aboriginal heritage. Her dedication to cultural preservation continues to inspire and shape the field of archaeology today.
Elsa-Karin Boestad-Nilsson
Elsa-Karin Boestad-Nilsson, a pioneering figure in computing, made significant contributions to computer programming in Sweden. Her work on the BARK and BESK computers played a key role in the development of computer programming in the country. Boestad-Nilsson’s dedication, expertise, and advocacy for women’s rights continue to inspire and influence generations.
Rayyanah Barnawi
Rayyanah Barnawi is a prominent biomedical researcher and the first Saudi female astronaut. Her selection for Axiom Mission 2 marked a historic milestone for Saudi Arabia and women in space. With a strong educational foundation and expertise in cancer stem cell research, Barnawi’s groundbreaking achievements have inspired aspiring female scientists and astronauts.
Donna Auguste
Donna Auguste (born 1958) is an African-American businesswoman, entrepreneur, and philanthropist. She was the co-founder and CEO of Freshwater Software from 1996 to 2000. She sold Freshwater Software for $147 million and was recognized as one of the “25 Women Who Are Making It Big in Small Business” by Fortune Magazine. She also won the 2001 Golden Torch Award for Outstanding Woman in Technology.
Dorothy Hodgkin
Dorothy Hodgkin was a British chemist who made significant contributions to X-ray crystallography. She confirmed the structure of penicillin and vitamin B12, revolutionizing medicine and winning her the Nobel Prize in Chemistry. Her work in understanding the structure of insulin also advanced our understanding of blood sugar regulation. Hodgkin’s research continues to impact drug development and the study of biological processes today.
Alice Gorman
Alice Gorman is an Australian archaeologist, heritage consultant, and lecturer, widely recognized for her pioneering work in the field of space archaeology. She has made significant contributions to the study of Indigenous stone tools, the archaeology of orbital debris, terrestrial launch sites, and satellite tracking stations. Gorman’s passion lies in the intersection of archaeology and space exploration, and she has become a leading figure in the study of space archaeology, publishing numerous influential works in the field.
Sara Akbar
Sara Hussein Akbar is a Kuwaiti chemical petroleum engineer, women’s rights advocate, and co-founder and former CEO of Kuwait Energy. She is recognized as a “national hero” for her involvement in the Kuwaiti oil fires. Akbar was awarded the Global 500 Roll of Honour from the United Nations Environmental Program for her firefighting efforts. She is one of the first women oil sector company executives from the Arabian Peninsula.
Carla Meninsky
Carla Meninsky, a former video game designer and programmer, played a crucial role in the early years of the Atari VCS. Her notable creations, such as Indy 500 and Dodge ‘Em, added thrilling experiences to the gaming industry. Meninsky’s passion for protecting intellectual property rights led her to pursue a law degree, becoming an advocate for stronger legal protections. Her contributions to both programming and law have made a lasting impact on the gaming industry.
Wendy B. Lawrence
Wendy Barrien Lawrence (born July 2, 1959) is a retired United States Navy Captain, an engineer, and former helicopter pilot and NASA astronaut. She was the first female graduate of the United States Naval Academy to fly into space and she has also visited the Russian Space Station Mir. She was a mission specialist on STS-114, the first Space Shuttle flight after the Space Shuttle Columbia disaster. She is married to Cathy Watson, a former NASA scientist.
Andrea Marshall
Andrea Marshall is a marine biologist known for her pioneering research and efforts in wildlife conservation, particularly in the study of large marine animals like manta rays and whale sharks.
Maureen Raymo
Maureen E. “Mo” Raymo, an American paleoclimatologist and marine geologist, has made significant contributions to climate science and paved the way for women in STEM fields. She has held prestigious positions such as the Co-Founding Dean of the Columbia Climate School, Director of the Lamont–Doherty Earth Observatory, and G. Unger Vetlesen Professor of Earth & Environmental Sciences. Raymo’s groundbreaking research on ice ages, temperature records, and climate change has provided valuable insights into paleoceanography and the Earth’s climate system. In 2014, she became the first woman to receive the Wollaston Medal for Geology, solidifying her status as a pioneering figure in the scientific community.
Enriqueta González Baz
Enriqueta González Baz y de la Vega was a Mexican mathematician and a trailblazer for women in mathematics in Mexico. She co-founded the Mexican Mathematical Society and became the first woman to earn a degree in mathematics at the National Autonomous University of Mexico. Enriqueta’s dedication to her field continues to inspire future generations of women in mathematics.
Marion Lee Johnson
Marion Lee Johnson, an American mathematician, made significant contributions to the Apollo 11 mission. Growing up in Savannah, Georgia, Marion developed a passion for mathematics and excelled academically. After overcoming setbacks, she joined Boeing Company and worked on the calculations for the Apollo 11 mission. Marion’s exceptional performance earned her a place on the Apollo/Saturn V Roll of Honor, and her contributions have inspired future generations of women in mathematics and science.
Shafi Goldwasser
Shafi Goldwasser, an Israeli-American computer scientist, is widely recognized for her contributions to cryptography. With a Bachelor’s degree from Carnegie Mellon and a PhD from Berkeley, she collaborated with Manuel Blum to propose the Blum-Goldwasser cryptosystem. Goldwasser’s research focuses on computational complexity theory and cryptography, and she is known for her work on probabilistic encryption and zero-knowledge proofs. Notably, she received the Turing Award in 2012 for her advancements in cryptography.
Margaret K. Butler
Margaret Kampschaefer Butler (March 27, 1924 – March 8, 2013) was a remarkable mathematician who played a significant role in the development and advancement of computer software. Her contributions during the early 1950s greatly impacted the field of computer technology. As the first female fellow at the American Nuclear Society and the director of the National Energy Software Center at Argonne, Butler held prominent leadership positions in both scientific organizations and women’s groups. Her work and achievements left a lasting imprint on society, particularly in the realm of nuclear power.
Halet Çambel
Halet Çambel was a Turkish archaeologist and Olympic fencer. She was the first woman with a Muslim background to compete in the Olympic Games. Çambel’s life was marked by her passion for archaeology, her groundbreaking achievements in fencing, and her dedication to preserving Turkey’s cultural heritage.
Barbara Paulson
Barbara Jean Paulson (née Lewis; born April 11, 1928) was an American human computer at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) and one of the first female scientists employed there.
Emmanuelle Charpentier
Emmanuelle Marie Charpentier was born on December 11, 1968, in Juvisy-sur-Orge, France. She is a renowned French professor and researcher in microbiology, genetics, and biochemistry. Charpentier’s groundbreaking work in the field of genome editing has propelled her to the forefront of scientific research and earned her numerous accolades.
Juliana Rotich
Juliana Rotich is a Kenyan information technology professional who made significant contributions to the field. She co-founded iHub and Ushahidi, playing a critical role in promoting innovation and connectivity in Kenya. Rotich’s leadership at Ushahidi gained worldwide recognition for its effectiveness in responding to crises, and she also raised awareness of environmental issues in Africa. Her dedication to leveraging technology for the greater good, combined with her commitment to preserving the environment, make her an inspiring figure in women’s history.
Mildred Cohn
Mildred Cohn (1913-2009) was an American biochemist who made significant contributions to the field of biochemistry. Her pioneering work in using nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) to study enzyme reactions greatly advanced our understanding of biochemical processes, particularly in relation to adenosine triphosphate (ATP). Despite facing gender discrimination, Cohn persisted in her studies and achieved remarkable success in her career. Her research and innovative techniques have inspired countless aspiring scientists, especially women, who have followed in her footsteps.
Mihaela van der Schaar
Mihaela van der Schaar is a renowned scientist and academic who has made significant contributions to the fields of machine learning, artificial intelligence (AI), and medicine. She currently holds the position of John Humphrey Plummer Professor of Machine Learning, AI, and Medicine at the University of Cambridge, where she also serves as the director of the Cambridge Centre for AI in Medicine (CCAIM). Additionally, she holds the position of Chancellor’s Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA).
Julia Pearl Hughes
Julia Pearl Hughes (March 19, 1873 – September 14, 1950), also known as Julia P. H. Coleman or Julia Coleman-Robinson, was a pharmacist, entrepreneur, social activist, and business executive. She was a trailblazer in various fields and made significant contributions to her community and society as a whole… Julia Pearl Hughes was born in Melville Township, Alamance County, North Carolina on March 19, 1873… leaving a lasting impact on women’s history.
Merritt Moore
Merritt Moore (born February 24, 1988) is an American ballerina and quantum physicist. She studied at both the University of Oxford and Harvard University. Moore works to combine her interests in physics and ballet through her research and dedication in both the arts and sciences.
Moore has a Bachelor’s Degree in Physics from Harvard University and a PhD in Atomic and Laser Physics from the University of Oxford. She has danced professionally for many ballet companies across the world including the English National Ballet and Norwegian National Ballet. Moore has performed in Swan Lake and The Nutcracker among other ballets.
She was featured as one of the contestants on BBC’s ‘Astronauts: Do You Have What It Takes?’ in 2017. Moore has also been recognized as one of Forbes’ 30 Under 30 and was featured in Glamour Magazine’s Top Ten College Women competition. She has spoken at TEDxOxbridge in 2013 and performed a ballet duet with dance partner Adam Kirkham.
In addition to her achievements in both ballet and physics, Moore started SASters – a group that encourages women to pursue their dreams in the arts and sciences. Currently, she is completing her residency at Harvard University’s ArtLab where her work combines science and dance through the use of robots.
E. Lilian Todd
E. Lilian Todd, born in Washington, D.C. in 1865, was the world’s first female airplane designer. Her passion for invention began at a young age, and her groundbreaking work took flight in 1910. Todd’s contribution as the first woman to design airplanes paved the way for generations of female aviators and broke gender barriers in a predominantly male industry.
Hypatia
Hypatia (c. 350–370 – 415 AD) was a neoplatonist philosopher, astronomer, and mathematician who lived in Alexandria, Egypt. She was renowned in her own lifetime as a great teacher and a wise counselor. Hypatia’s intellectual prowess and practical applications of mathematics and astronomy gained her acclaim and respect. Her tragic death at the hands of a mob shocked the empire and inspired future generations to oppose anti-intellectualism. Her legacy lives on as a symbol for intellectual freedom and the pursuit of knowledge.
Ida Stephens Owens
Ida Stephens Owens, a trailblazing American scientist, overcame adversity to become one of the first African Americans to receive a doctorate from Duke University. Her groundbreaking research on drug-detoxifying enzymes at the National Institutes of Health has left an indelible mark on the field of biomedical research. Owens’ unwavering commitment and contributions continue to inspire future generations.
Hetty Goldman
Hetty Goldman, born in 1881, was a pioneering American archaeologist who made significant contributions to the field. As one of the first female archaeologists to excavate in Greece and the Middle East, Goldman broke barriers and paved the way for future generations. Her dedication to scholarly excellence and her pioneering role as one of the first female archaeologists have secured her a place in history as a true trailblazer in women’s history.
Lynne Butler
Lynne Marie Butler (born 1959) is an American mathematician known for her significant contributions to the fields of algebraic combinatorics, group theory, and mathematical statistics. She has made remarkable strides in her career as a professor of mathematics at Haverford College.
Rumi Chunara
Rumi Chunara is an associate professor of biostatistics at New York University School of Global Public Health. Her research focuses on using computational and statistical approaches to improve population-level public health. Chunara has made significant contributions to the field, including the use of social media data for early disease detection, improving vaccination rates through smart immunization targeting, and studying the impact of telemedicine on healthcare access. Her work has provided valuable insights and tools for monitoring diseases and addressing societal challenges in public health.
Bell Burnell
Dame Susan Jocelyn Bell Burnell, a renowned astrophysicist from Northern Ireland, made a groundbreaking discovery in 1967 when she detected the first radio pulsars. Despite not being recognized with a Nobel Prize, her contributions to astrophysics have had a profound impact on our understanding of the universe. Bell Burnell’s commitment to promoting inclusivity in physics and her significant roles within scientific organizations solidify her position as a trailblazer.
Veronica Dahl
Verónica Dahl is an Argentine/Canadian computer scientist and a pioneer in the field of logic programming. She made significant contributions to the field, including developing the first logic programming database system and advocating for gender equality in the male-dominated field. Dahl’s research extended beyond logic programming and she received numerous awards and recognitions for her work. Her dedication to advancing computer science and promoting gender equality has left a lasting impact on the field.
Clara Benson
Clara Cynthia Benson (1875–1964) was a Canadian chemist and an influential figure in the field of biochemistry. She is best known as the sole female founder of the American Society for Biological Chemistry, now known as the American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (ASBMB). Benson’s groundbreaking contributions to the scientific community and her pioneering role as one of the first two women to earn a Ph.D. from the University of Toronto (U of T) have left a lasting impact on the field of biochemistry and women’s history.
Edith Clarke
Edith Clarke was a trailblazing American electrical engineer who achieved many firsts in her field. She revolutionized electrical power system analysis with her innovative inventions and calculations. Despite facing gender discrimination, she became the first woman to be professionally employed as an electrical engineer in the United States, as well as the first female professor of electrical engineering in the country. Her groundbreaking achievements continue to inspire future generations of scientists and engineers.
Christian Maclagan
Christian Maclagan (1811-1901) was a Scottish antiquarian and early archaeologist known for her collection of rubbings and her pioneering work in stratigraphic excavation. Despite losing the use of her right hand, Maclagan continued to create drawings, sketches, and paintings with her left hand. She was also dedicated to helping those affected by poverty in Stirling. Maclagan’s achievements and determination make her a remarkable figure in women’s history.
Madeleine Brès
Madeleine Alexandrine Brès, born on 26 November 1842 in Bouillarges, was a pioneering French female physician who made significant contributions to medicine and women’s rights. She is renowned as the first French woman to obtain a medical degree in 1875, marking a groundbreaking achievement in the field of healthcare. Brès dedicated her career to pediatric care, focusing particularly on the vital topic of breastfeeding.
Joyce Weisbecker
Joyce Weisbecker, the first female commercial video game designer, made significant contributions to the world of gaming. She developed games for the RCA Studio II console and showcased her talent and innovation with projects like Snake Race and Jackpot. Weisbecker’s dedication and skill paved the way for future generations of game designers.
Sarah J. Greenwald
Sarah J. Greenwald is a distinguished professor of mathematics at Appalachian State University and a faculty affiliate of the gender, women’s, and sexuality studies program. With a passion for both mathematical research and teaching, Greenwald has made significant contributions in the fields of geometry and the scholarship of teaching and learning. She is also known for exploring the connections between mathematics and society, particularly in relation to women, minorities, and popular culture.
Dorit Dor
Dorit Dor, an Israeli executive and computer scientist, is best known as the Chief Technology Officer of Check Point Software Technologies Ltd, where she has made significant contributions to the field of cybersecurity. Her passion for technology and problem-solving emerged early on, leading her to excel in her studies and pursue a Bachelor of Science degree in computer science and mathematics. Dorit’s talent caught the attention of the Israel Defense Forces, where she served in Unit 8200, eventually reaching the position of major. Her career at Check Point has been marked by her dedication and leadership, culminating in her appointment as the Chief Technology Officer in 2023. Dorit is recognized as a prominent figure in the field of cybersecurity and has received numerous awards and accolades for her contributions.
Ibtesam Badhrees
Ibtesam Saeed Badhrees, a research scientist in experimental particle physics, is recognized for her contributions to the field and for breaking gender barriers as the first Saudi woman at CERN. She has a Bachelor of Science in Physics from King Abdulaziz University and a PhD in Particle Physics from the University of Bern. Her research spans various subfields of physics, and she serves as an adjunct professor at Carleton University. Badhrees has received numerous awards for her outstanding academic achievements and is an inspiration for aspiring scientists, especially women.
Ida Rhodes
Ida Rhodes was an influential American mathematician who played a crucial role in early computer development. Born as Hadassah Itzkowitz in Ukraine, she immigrated to the United States at the age of 13. She studied mathematics at Cornell University and went on to work on the Mathematical Tables Project. Rhodes was a pioneer in programming systems and designed the C-10 programming language. She received multiple awards for her contributions to computing.
Carrie Everson
Carrie Jane Everson, a pioneering American metallurgist and inventor, made groundbreaking discoveries in ore extraction using froth flotation. Despite facing challenges due to her gender, she earned two U.S. patents and tested her innovative process in various locations. Although she did not renew her patents and faced gender bias, Everson’s contributions had a lasting impact on the field of metallurgy. She passed away in 1914, leaving a legacy of scientific accomplishments.
Ire Aderinokun
Ire Aderinokun is a Nigerian front-end developer and Google developer expert. She is renowned for being Nigeria’s first female Google Developer Expert. Born in Ogun state, Nigeria, Ire grew up in a loving family, raised by her parents Tayo and Mrs. Olunfunlola Aderinokun.
Chiaki Mukai
Chiaki Mukai is a Japanese physician and JAXA astronaut who became the first Japanese woman to venture into space. With two spaceflights aboard the Space Shuttle Columbia (STS-65) in 1994 and the Space Shuttle Discovery (STS-95) in 1998, she has spent a total of 23 days in space. Throughout her career, Mukai has made significant contributions to both the medical and aerospace communities, inspiring young women to pursue careers in STEM and space exploration.
Florence M. Hawley
Florence May Hawley Ellis, a pioneer in dendrochronology, made significant contributions to the field in the mid-20th century. Despite facing challenges as a woman in a male-dominated field, she became a role model for anthropologists, inspiring her students and women in academia to strive for excellence. Hawley’s dedication to her work extended beyond her retirement in 1971, as she continued to actively contribute to anthropology until her death in 1991. Her innovative techniques and groundbreaking research in dendrochronology have left a lasting impact on the field.
Kwang Hwa Chung
Kwang Hwa Chung is a South Korean physicist who has made significant contributions to physics and women’s representation in STEM. She has served as the president of the Korea Research Institute of Standards and Science and the president of the Institute for Basic Science. Chung’s dedication to gender equality extended beyond advocacy, as she established a daycare center in Daedeok Innopolis to support working women. Her pioneering work and advocacy have left an indelible impact on South Korea’s scientific community.
Arfa Karim
Arfa Abdul Karim Randhawa, a Pakistani computer prodigy, became the youngest Microsoft Certified Professional at just nine years old. Her remarkable skills and achievements gained worldwide recognition and made her a role model for aspiring technologists. Sadly, her journey ended at the age of 16 when she suffered a cardiac arrest. However, her impact on society and the field of technology remains immense, and she continues to inspire through the Arfa Software Technology Park named in her honor.
Isabel Maddison
Ada Isabel Maddison (1869 – 1950) was a British mathematician best known for her work on differential equations. Maddison had a remarkable academic journey, overcoming many obstacles as a woman in a time when higher education was not readily accessible to women. Her contributions to mathematics and her perseverance in pursuing her passion have left a lasting legacy.
Zulma Brandoni de Gasparini
Zulma Nélida Brandoni de Gasparini, an Argentine paleontologist and zoologist, has made significant contributions to the field of paleontology. Her groundbreaking work on South American paleontology, particularly in Mesozoic reptiles, has expanded our understanding of prehistoric life on the continent. She also gained international recognition for leading a team that discovered a new dinosaur species, named in her honor. Through her research, teaching, and numerous awards, Brandoni de Gasparini is an inspiration to aspiring scientists and a key figure in women’s history.
Alice Paul
Alice Stokes Paul was a prominent American Quaker, suffragist, feminist, and women’s rights activist. Known for her exceptional leadership skills and unwavering determination, she played a pivotal role in the campaign for the Nineteenth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution. Paul’s influential work helped secure the right to vote for women and laid the foundation for future advancements in gender equality.
Kateryna Yushchenko
Kateryna Yushchenko was a Soviet Ukrainian computer and information research scientist, who played a crucial role in the development of computer science and programming languages. She made significant contributions to the field throughout her career, including the creation of the Address programming language. Yushchenko’s groundbreaking work and her role as a female pioneer in computer science continue to inspire future generations.
Inge Lehmann
Inge Lehmann, a Danish seismologist and geophysicist, revolutionized our understanding of the Earth’s structure with her groundbreaking discoveries. Her analysis of seismic wave measurements revealed the presence of a solid inner core within a molten outer core, challenging previous beliefs. Lehmann’s contributions, along with her longevity and trailblazing role for women in science, continue to inspire and shape the field of seismology.
Maria Klawe
Maria Margaret Klawe is a renowned computer scientist and the fifth president of Harvey Mudd College since July 1, 2006. She was born in Toronto, Ontario in 1951 and later became a naturalized U.S. citizen in 2009. Klawe’s journey in academia has been marked by numerous achievements and a steadfast commitment to advancing women in STEM fields.
Donna Strickland
Donna Strickland is a Canadian optical physicist known for her pioneering work in pulsed lasers. Her collaboration with Gérard Mourou led to the development of chirped pulse amplification, revolutionizing laser technology and earning them the Nobel Prize in Physics in 2018. Strickland’s work has had far-reaching applications in medical imaging, cancer treatment, and scientific research. She currently holds a professorship at the University of Waterloo and is actively involved in advancing optics and photonics.
Carrie Anne Philbin
Carrie Anne Philbin MBE is an English teacher of computer science, author, and influential figure in the field of education and technology. Her work has made a significant impact on society, inspiring and empowering countless individuals to pursue careers and interests in technology.
Fern Hunt
Fern Yvette Hunt, born in 1948, is an accomplished American mathematician who has made significant contributions in applied mathematics and mathematical biology. Her journey was influenced by her family and teachers. She is currently a researcher at the National Institute of Standards and Technology, focusing on the ergodic theory of dynamical systems. With a passion for mentoring and promoting diversity, Hunt has left a lasting impact on the mathematics community.
Christine Darden
Christine Darden, an American mathematician and aeronautical engineer, dedicated her career to researching supersonic flight and sonic booms. Her groundbreaking accomplishments at NASA shattered barriers and inspired future generations of women and minorities in the field of engineering and mathematics.
Hannah Dee
Hannah-Mary Dee is a British cognitive scientist and computer scientist specializing in computer vision. She has made significant contributions to the field of computer science, particularly in the analysis of human behavior using computer vision techniques. Dee has also been an advocate for women in IT and has organized events to promote their participation in computing.
Ruth Ella Moore
Ruth Ella Moore, born in Columbus, Ohio in 1903, was a pioneering American bacteriologist and microbiologist. She became the first African-American woman to earn a Ph.D. in a natural science in 1933. Moore’s groundbreaking research on tuberculosis made significant contributions to the understanding and control of the disease. Throughout her career, she served as a mentor and inspiration to aspiring scientists, particularly African-American women. Her legacy as a trailblazer in her field continues to inspire future generations.
Virginia Sink
Virginia Sink (September 14, 1913 – November 20, 1986) was an American chemical engineer and the first woman automotive engineer at Chrysler. Sink’s dedication to a cleaner and more sustainable automotive industry led her to co-develop Chrysler’s Cleaner Air Package, making her a pioneer in environmental engineering. Her groundbreaking work and numerous awards have inspired future generations of female engineers.
Lisa Harvey-Smith
Lisa Harvey-Smith (born 1979) is a British-Australian astrophysicist, Australia’s Women in STEM Ambassador, and a Professor of Practice in Science Communication at the University of NSW. Her research interests span a wide range of topics in astrophysics, including the origin and evolution of cosmic magnetism, supernova remnants, the interstellar medium, massive star formation, and astrophysical masers.
Jessie Christiansen
Jessie Christiansen, an astrophysicist from Australia, has made significant contributions to the field of exoplanet research. Currently working at the NASA Exoplanet Science Institute, her passion for uncovering the mysteries of the universe has made her highly respected in the scientific community. She is also known for her involvement in the NASA Kepler and upcoming TESS missions, as well as her commitment to public engagement and science communication. Christiansen’s groundbreaking research and dedication to the advancement of science have shaped our understanding of the universe.
Maggie Aderin-Pocock
Margaret Ebunoluwa Aderin-Pocock is a British space scientist and science educator. She is the chancellor of the University of Leicester and co-presenter of the astronomy television program The Sky at Night. Aderin-Pocock is the first black woman to win a gold medal in the Physics News Award and served as the president of the British Science Association.
Katherine Johnson
Katherine Johnson, born Creola Katherine Coleman on August 26, 1918, in White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia, was an American mathematician whose pioneering work at NASA paved the way for crewed spaceflights and advanced the field of orbital mechanics. Her contributions to the early days of space exploration were instrumental in the success of numerous missions and made her a trailblazer for African-American women in science and mathematics.
Somaya Faruqi
Somaya Faruqi, born in 2002 in Herat city, Afghanistan, overcame the restrictions imposed by the Taliban to pursue her passion for engineering. As the captain of the Afghan Girls Robotics Team, she led her team to international recognition and helped develop a low-cost ventilator prototype during the COVID-19 pandemic. Faruqi’s accomplishments have earned her numerous awards and recognition, making her an inspiration to young girls in Afghanistan and beyond.
Grace Alele-Williams
Grace Alele-Williams was a trailblazing Nigerian professor of mathematics education. She became the first Nigerian woman to earn a doctorate and the first Nigerian female vice-chancellor at the University of Benin. Throughout her career, she advocated for women’s education and was dedicated to improving access to scientific and technological subjects for female African students. Her contributions to academia and education in Nigeria have left a lasting impact.
Maria L. Gini
Maria L. Gini is an Italian and American computer scientist known for her contributions in the fields of artificial intelligence and robotics. She has dedicated her career to advancing the field of computer science and promoting broad participation in computing.
Ruth Teitelbaum
Ruth Teitelbaum was a pioneering computer programmer who made significant contributions to the field of computing during its early days. She played a vital role in programming the ENIAC computer, the first all-electronic digital computer, and helped develop ballistics software for their complex calculations. Teitelbaum’s work has had a lasting impact on the field of computing and her contributions were finally recognized through documentaries such as “Top Secret Rosies: The Female ‘Computers’ of WWII.”
Victoria Chibuogu Nneji
Victoria Chibuogu Nneji is a Nigerian-born American computer scientist, design and innovation strategist, and a lecturing fellow, known for her research on robotics, automation, human-centered design, and autonomous transportation. Her dedication to advancing robotics, automation, and human-centered design has made her a respected figure in the field. Through her work, Nneji continues to inspire and empower individuals to embrace technology and drive positive change.
Dorothy McFadden Hoover
Dorothy Estheryne McFadden Hoover was an American physicist and mathematician who made significant contributions to the early days of NASA. As one of the first black women hired at Langley, she became a published physicist and mathematician and was listed as a co-author on NASA research publications. Her work supported the development of America’s first jet fighter, and her legacy continues to inspire and empower individuals today.
Kathleen Rubins
Kathleen Hallisey Rubins is an American microbiologist and NASA astronaut. She has had a significant impact on space exploration and serves as a role model for women in science. Rubins became the 60th woman to fly in space when she launched on a Russian Soyuz spacecraft to the International Space Station (ISS) on July 7, 2016. After spending three and a half months in space, she returned to Earth in Kazakhstan on October 30, 2016.
Wang Xiaoyun
Wang Xiaoyun, a renowned Chinese cryptographer, mathematician, and computer scientist, has made significant contributions to the field of cryptography. Born in 1966 in Zhucheng, Shandong Province, Wang showed an early aptitude for mathematics and pursued her passion by obtaining bachelor (1987), master (1990), and doctoral degrees (1993) from Shandong University.
Maryam Mirzakhani
Maryam Mirzakhani was an Iranian mathematician and professor of mathematics at Stanford University. She made tremendous contributions to the field of mathematics in areas such as Teichmüller theory, hyperbolic geometry, ergodic theory, and symplectic geometry. Mirzakhani became the first Iranian woman to win a gold medal at the International Mathematical Olympiad and went on to become one of the first two women to receive the prestigious Fields Medal in 2014. Her legacy continues to inspire future generations in the field of mathematics.
Rita Levi-Montalcini
Rita Levi-Montalcini was an Italian neurobiologist known for her groundbreaking discoveries in the field of neuroscience. She overcame discrimination and established a laboratory in her bedroom during World War II to continue her research. Levi-Montalcini’s most significant contribution was the discovery of nerve growth factor, for which she received the 1986 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine. Her scientific achievements, along with her dedication to public service, have made her an iconic figure in women’s history and scientific discovery.
Maria Elisabeth Bes
Maria Elisabeth Stellwag-Bes, a remarkable Dutch chemical engineer and city councillor, made significant contributions to her field and fought for women’s rights. Born in 1882 in Tilburg, Netherlands, she became the first woman in the Netherlands to receive an engineering diploma. Her achievements broke barriers and inspired other women to pursue careers in STEM fields. She also played a vital role in the establishment of the national Liberal Democratic Women’s Club, advocating for women’s suffrage and equal representation in politics. Her determination and commitment to equality continue to inspire women worldwide.
Lynette Long
Lynette Long, an influential American former professor and feminist, has dedicated her career to addressing educational disparities and advocating for women’s rights. She is well-known for her research on the math achievement of young girls and her efforts to increase the representation of women in various national symbols. Through her work, Long has inspired change and highlighted the importance of gender equality in education and society.
Alice Vickery
Alice Vickery was an English physician and campaigner for women’s rights. She was the first British woman to qualify as a chemist and pharmacist, breaking gender barriers in the medical field. Vickery’s passion for medicine and social reform began to take shape as she grew up in South London. Throughout her life, she remained dedicated to challenging societal norms, advocating for social change, and empowering women. Her remarkable contributions continue to inspire and empower women to this day.
Marta Kwiatkowska
Marta Zofia Kwiatkowska is a prominent Polish theoretical computer scientist known for her contributions to the field of computing systems. Her research focuses on modeling and automated verification techniques for computing systems, with the aim of ensuring their safe and reliable operation. She is currently a Professor of Computing Systems at the University of Oxford and a Fellow of Trinity College. Kwiatkowska’s groundbreaking work led to the creation of the widely recognized PRISM probabilistic model checker. She is also actively involved in promoting responsible AI adoption and encouraging women to pursue careers in science.
Robin Hunicke
Robin Hunicke is an American video game designer and producer, known for her significant contributions to the gaming industry. She has worked on popular games such as MySims, Boom Blox, and Journey, earning widespread critical acclaim and commercial success. Hunicke is also recognized for her support of indie games and her advocacy for women’s representation in the gaming industry.
Shakuntala Devi
Shakuntala Devi was an Indian mental calculator and writer, known as the “Human Computer”. She achieved her world record for mental calculations in 1980 and was listed in the 1982 edition of The Guinness Book of World Records. Devi’s extraordinary talent, exhibited from a young age, allowed her to simplify numerical calculations, making mathematics more accessible and enjoyable for students. Her legacy as a mathematician and advocate for human rights continues to inspire generations.
Lisa Gelobter
Lisa Gelobter is a renowned computer scientist, technologist, and chief executive known for her groundbreaking work in the tech industry. Gelobter’s diverse background has been influential in shaping her career. Her multicultural heritage has instilled in her a deep understanding of diversity, inclusion, and the importance of equal representation. Gelobter has made significant contributions to various fields, including software development, digital services, and social impact. She has held leadership roles in both the public and private sectors, and her commitment to creating a safe and inclusive work environment has had a lasting impact on the industry. Her pioneering work in technology has paved the way for future generations of women and minorities in the industry.
Émilie du Châtelet
Gabrielle Émilie Le Tonnelier de Breteuil, Marquise du Châtelet, was a French natural philosopher and mathematician. Known for her translation of Isaac Newton’s book and her contributions to physics, she challenged societal norms and advocated for the education and empowerment of women. Her work has had a lasting impact on the intellectual and scientific landscape.
Judith Resnik
Judith Resnik, a pioneer in multiple fields including electrical engineering, software engineering, and biomedical engineering, tragically lost her life in the Space Shuttle Challenger disaster. She was the first Jewish woman in space and her dedication to her work inspired a new generation of women in STEM. Her contributions to space exploration and women’s history continue to be celebrated.
Gertrude Caton Thompson
Gertrude Caton Thompson, FBA (1888-1985), was an English archaeologist who played a critical role in the field at a time when women were underrepresented. She conducted archaeological work in various regions and made significant contributions, including developing an excavation technique and providing valuable insights into ancient civilizations in Egypt and Zimbabwe. Caton Thompson’s dedication to archaeology and her influential positions in organizations have had a lasting impact on the field.
Sue Black
Susan Elizabeth Black OBE FRSA, born in 1962, is a British computer scientist, academic, and social entrepreneur. She is renowned for her efforts in saving Bletchley Park, the World War II codebreaking center, through her Saving Bletchley Park campaign.
Pamela E. Harris
Pamela Estephania Harris, a renowned Mexican-American mathematician, educator, and advocate for immigrants, is making significant contributions in the field of mathematics. She is the co-founder of the online platform Lathisms, an editor of the e-mentoring blog of the American Mathematical Society, and co-hosts a podcast called “Mathematically Uncensored.” Harris’s dedication to inclusivity and diversity is evident in her advocacy work and book co-authorship. Her passion for mathematics and commitment to underrepresented groups have earned her numerous awards and recognition.
Moremi Ajasoro
Moremi Ajasoro, a legendary Yoruba queen, played a crucial role in liberating the Yoruba kingdom of Ife from the neighboring Ugbo Kingdom in 12th-century Nigeria. Her bravery and sacrifice have made her a revered figure in Yoruba history, inspiring generations with her commitment to justice and freedom.
Jessica Meir
Jessica Ulrika Meir is an American NASA astronaut, marine biologist, and physiologist. Her passion for exploration and science was evident from an early age. Meir’s interest in space and nature was sparked by watching the Space Shuttle missions on television. She pursued postdoctoral research in comparative physiology at the University of British Columbia, delving into the intriguing world of diving physiology and behavior of emperor penguins in Antarctica. This research allowed her to unveil the secrets of these incredible creatures and shed light on their adaptations to extreme aquatic environments. Meir’s talent and expertise were further recognized when she participated in ESA CAVES, a training course where international astronauts undertake missions in a space-analogue cave environment. On September 25, 2019, Meir’s dream culminated in her launch to the International Space Station (ISS) aboard Soyuz MS-15. She served as a Flight Engineer during Expeditions 61 and 62, conducting critical experiments, carrying out maintenance tasks, and contributing to the overall success of the missions. One of the most significant milestones in Meir’s career occurred on October 18, 2019, when she and Christina Koch made history as the first women to participate in an all-female spacewalk. Meir’s remarkable contributions have earned her numerous accolades and recognition, including being named one of Time magazine’s 100 Most Influential People of 2020.
Judith Gal-Ezer
Judith Gal-Ezer is an Israeli computer scientist and computer science educator known for her development of the high school computer science curriculum in Israel. She is a professor emerita at the Open University of Israel, with a career spanning several decades. Gal-Ezer’s contributions to computer science education have been recognized through various awards and honors. Her dedication has shaped the future of computer science education in Israel and beyond, making her an influential figure in the field.
Clara Barker
Clara Michelle Barker, a British engineer and material scientist, has become an influential role model for the LGBT+ community. Her outstanding work has earned her recognition and numerous awards. Clara’s dedication and expertise in the field of material science are showcased in her completed thesis on thin film coating at Manchester Metropolitan University. As a transgender woman, she is passionately involved in advocating for LGBT+ diversity and women in STEM, working to create a supportive and inclusive environment in places like the University of Oxford. Clara’s commitment to fostering diversity and visibility in STEM has earned her well-deserved recognition, including the Points of Light award from the UK Prime Minister’s Office in 2017 and the Individual Champion/Role Model award from the University of Oxford in 2018. Her inspiring journey and impactful contributions establish her as a prominent figure and influential role model.
Fatimata Seye Sylla
Fatimata Seye Sylla is an influential figure in Senegal’s digital landscape. Known for her work in promoting the use of information and communications technology (ICT) in education and advocating for internet accessibility, she has made significant contributions to the development of ICT initiatives in Africa.
Rosalind Franklin
Rosalind Elsie Franklin was a British chemist and X-ray crystallographer known for her contributions to the understanding of molecular structures. Despite her significant work on DNA, her contributions were not fully recognized during her lifetime. Franklin’s research on coal and viruses, along with her discovery of key properties of DNA, played a crucial role in the accurate description of the structure of DNA known as the double helix.
Cecilia R. Aragon
Cecilia Rodriguez Aragon, American computer scientist and aerobatic pilot, is known for her co-invention of the treap data structure. She has held positions at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory and NASA Ames Research Center, and currently serves as a professor at the University of Washington. Aragon’s contributions to computer science and her achievements in aerobatics have made her a trailblazer and role model for women in these fields. She received the Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers in 2009.
Honor Frost
Honor Frost (1917-2010) was a pioneer in underwater archaeology, known for her work in the Mediterranean, particularly in Lebanon. She developed a typology of stone anchors and was skilled in archaeological illustration. Frost’s passion for diving began when she explored a well in a friend’s backyard, and she became an avid diver and artist. Her significant discoveries include the Phoenician shipwreck at Cape Gelidonya and her survey of the Pharos site in Alexandria, Egypt. Her contributions continue to shape our understanding of maritime history and Phoenician culture.
Amina Helmi
Amina Helmi, an Argentine astronomer and professor at the University of Groningen, is a leading figure in the field of galactic archaeology. With a focus on the Milky Way, she combines computer simulations and observational data to uncover the mysteries of galaxy formation. Her dedication and contributions have earned her numerous awards and recognition, solidifying her status as a prominent figure in the scientific community.
Nina Strokata Karavanska
Nina Antonovna Karavanska (née Strokata; January 31, 1926 – August 2, 1998) was a Ukrainian dissident, Soviet microbiologist, and immunologist. She was a member of the dissident movement in the USSR, a co-founder of the Ukrainian Helsinki Group, and one of the leading human rights activists in Odesa during the Soviet period. Karavanska was also a distinguished scientist, authoring about 23 scientific papers in the field of clinical microbiology and immunology.
Carole De Saram
Carole De Saram, born in Queens, New York in 1939, is an American feminist and women’s rights activist. As the former president of the New York chapter of the National Organization of Women (NOW), De Saram has played a pivotal role in advocating for women’s equality. With her focus on intersectionality with economics, she has made significant contributions to shaping women’s history and furthering the feminist movement.
Virginia Louise Trimble
Virginia Louise Trimble, born in 1943, is an American astronomer known for her expertise in the structure and evolution of stars and galaxies, as well as the history of astronomy. With an impressive publication record that exceeds 600 works in Astrophysics and numerous other works in the history of various sciences, Trimble has made significant contributions to the field.
Wang Yaping
Wang Yaping is the second female taikonaut and the first Chinese woman to perform a spacewalk. She achieved the longest stay in space by a female astronaut in April 2022, accumulating 197 days. Wang’s dedication to space exploration and her contributions to scientific knowledge have made her a role model for aspiring female astronauts and a symbol of progress in aviation and space science.
Sylvia Earle
Sylvia Alice Earle, an American marine biologist, has dedicated her life to understanding and protecting the world’s oceans. As the first female chief scientist of the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, she has broken gender barriers and made significant contributions to ocean conservation. Earle’s immense influence on environmental activism and her captivating books have inspired countless individuals to preserve our planet’s most precious resource.
Janet L. Kavandi
Janet Lynn Kavandi, a native of Carthage, Missouri, was born on July 17, 1959. She is an American scientist and a NASA astronaut who has made significant contributions to space exploration. Kavandi is known for her impressive career as an astronaut, as well as her leadership roles within NASA.
Hattie Carwell
Hattie Carwell, an American physicist and former scientist with the United States Department of Energy, has had a remarkable career in the field of physics. Her dedication to promoting diversity in STEM fields and her contributions to scientific literature make her an influential figure and an inspiration for aspiring scientists.
Carlotta Berry
Carlotta Berry is an American academic in the field of engineering who has made significant contributions to promoting diversity and inclusion in STEM fields. As a professor of electrical and computer engineering at Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology, she has dedicated her career to empowering underrepresented populations and encouraging greater participation in the engineering profession.
Sadia Bashir
Sadia Bashir is a Pakistani computer scientist and game developer who founded the first game training academy in Pakistan, PixelArt Games Academy. Despite facing difficulties, she pursued her education and deepened her knowledge of graphics, computers, and gaming. Through her academy, Sadia aims to address the gender gap in the gaming industry and provide greater opportunities for women. She has been recognized with the “Women Can Do” Award for her accomplishments.
Neta Bahcall
Neta Bahcall, an Israeli astrophysicist and cosmologist, has made significant contributions to our understanding of dark matter, the structure of the universe, quasars, and the formation of galaxies. She has held various positions at Princeton University and is currently the Eugene Higgins Professor of Astronomy. Bahcall’s work with the Hubble Space Telescope in mapping galaxies and calculating the mass of the universe has been groundbreaking. She has received numerous accolades, including being elected as a member of the National Academy of Sciences.
Muriel Tramis
Muriel Tramis, born in 1958 in Fort-de-France, Martinique, is a French video game designer and computer engineer. She is widely recognized as the first Black woman video game designer and has made significant contributions to the industry. Tramis’s passion for creating stories and images with computers led her to a successful career in video game development.
Lubna Tahtamouni
Lubna Hamid Tawfiq Tahtamouni is a renowned Jordanian biologist known for her significant contributions in developmental biology and cancer research. She currently serves as the head of the Department of Biology and Biotechnology at Hashemite University in Zarqa, Jordan. Tahtamouni’s remarkable work on breast cancer and her advocacy for women in science have made her a prominent figure in the scientific community.
Ida Holz
Ida Holz Bard, a pioneer in the field of computing and the Internet, was born on January 30, 1935 in Uruguay. Her early experiences in Israel and Uruguay shaped her remarkable career. She became part of the first generation of Uruguayan computer science students and later led the development of the Internet in Uruguay. Her commitment to autonomy and self-determination in the realm of the Internet made her a respected figure. Holz Bard’s groundbreaking work and dedication have left an indelible mark on technology and women’s empowerment.
Marie Maynard Daly
Marie Maynard Daly was an American biochemist who made significant contributions to the field of chemistry and medicine. She was the first African-American woman in the United States to earn a Ph.D. in chemistry and the first African-American to receive a Ph.D. from Columbia University. Her groundbreaking research on protein synthesis, hypertension, and muscle cells’ uptake of creatine deepened our understanding of biochemistry and paved the way for medical advancements. Daly’s commitment to diversity and inclusivity also played a vital role in inspiring underrepresented individuals to pursue careers in science.
Mary Watson Whitney
Mary Watson Whitney was an American astronomer and the head of the Vassar College Observatory for 22 years. She published 102 scientific papers and was a dedicated advocate for women in science, encouraging them to pursue various fields and believing that scientific training could prepare women for motherhood. Whitney’s passion and groundbreaking research continue to inspire astronomers today.
Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw
Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, born on 23 March 1953 in Bangalore, Karnataka state, is an Indian billionaire entrepreneur and a pioneer in the field of biotechnology. She is the executive chairperson and founder of Biocon Limited and Biocon Biologics Limited, a biotechnology company based in Bangalore, India.
Ida Barney
Ida Barney (November 6, 1886 – March 7, 1982) was an American astronomer, best known for her 22 volumes of astrometric measurements on 150,000 stars. She made significant contributions to the field of astronomy and played a crucial role in the development of star catalogs.
Mavis Batey
Mavis Lilian Batey, born in 1921, was a remarkable British code-breaker and historian. She played a vital role in deciphering encrypted messages during World War II and made groundbreaking progress in breaking the Italian Naval Enigma machine. After the war, she pursued her passion for gardening and became a renowned historian in the field. She was honored with prestigious awards for her contributions to garden conservation and her immense impact in preserving cultural heritage.
Charlene Heisler
Charlene Heisler was a Canadian astronomer known for her groundbreaking work on Active Galactic Nuclei (AGN). Her determination and passion for science, despite facing significant health challenges, serve as an inspiration to aspiring astronomers and women in science.
Vera Rubin
Vera Rubin, a renowned American astronomer, made groundbreaking discoveries in the field of astrophysics. Her observations of galactic rotation curves provided evidence for the existence of dark matter, revolutionizing our understanding of the cosmos. Rubin’s dedication to advocating for women in science led to the establishment of the National Science Foundation Vera C. Rubin Observatory, ensuring her lasting legacy.
Carole Jordan
Dame Carole Jordan, DBE, FRS, FRAS, FInstP (born 19 July 1941) is a British physicist, astrophysicist, astronomer, and academic. She is widely recognized for her significant contributions to the field of astrophysics and her pioneering efforts as a woman in a male-dominated field.
Kira Radinsky
Kira Radinsky, born in Ukraine in 1986, is an Israeli computer scientist, inventor, and entrepreneur who has made significant contributions to the field of predictive data mining. She co-founded SalesPredict during her Ph.D. studies, which led to its acquisition by eBay in 2016. Radinsky gained recognition for her groundbreaking prediction of a cholera outbreak in Cuba and has been honored with various awards for her innovative work, including being named “Woman of the Year” by Lady Globes magazine in 2016.
Laura Bassi
Laura Maria Caterina Bassi Veratti, known as “Minerva” due to her wisdom, was an Italian physicist and academic. She made history as the first woman to hold a doctorate in science and the second woman in the world to earn a Doctor of Philosophy degree. Bassi became the first salaried female teacher in a university and the first female member of any scientific establishment. Her contributions and groundbreaking achievements paved the way for future generations of female scientists.
Caroline Furness
Caroline Ellen Furness, a pioneering American astronomer, made significant contributions to the field in the early twentieth century. After earning her Ph.D. in astronomy from Columbia University, she returned to her alma mater, Vassar College, where she collaborated with renowned astronomers and authored influential publications. Additionally, Furness advocated for women’s education and held important positions in women’s organizations. Her legacy as a dedicated scientist and advocate continues to inspire women in the field of science.
Premala Sivaprakasapillai Sivasegaram
Premala Sivasegaram, the first female engineer in Sri Lanka, is a trailblazing figure who has made significant contributions to the field of engineering. Her pioneering achievements and dedication to breaking barriers have paved the way for future generations of women engineers and have left a lasting impact on Sri Lanka’s infrastructure development.
Ellen Hayes
Ellen Amanda Hayes, an American mathematician and astronomer, was a controversial figure in her time due to her role as a female college professor and her support for radical causes. She made significant contributions to the field of mathematics and astronomy, and was known for her strong-willed personality and dedication to social causes. Her fearless attitude and unwavering commitment to equality make her a trailblazer in women’s history.
Hava Siegelmann
Hava Siegelmann is an American computer scientist known for her groundbreaking work in the fields of artificial intelligence (AI) and neural networks. She has made significant contributions to lifelong learning, Super-Turing computation, and dynamical systems. Her research and practical applications have earned her prestigious awards, such as the Meritorious Public Service Medal and the Donald Hebb Award. Through her work, Siegelmann has had a lasting impact on the field of computer science and society as a whole.
Edith Anne Stoney
Edith Anne Stoney, born in Dublin to a prominent Anglo-Irish scientific family, was a pioneering physicist and the first woman medical physicist. Her work in establishing the physics course and laboratory at the London School of Medicine for Women paved the way for future female medical physicists and challenged gender roles in the scientific and medical fields.
Carol Frieze
Carol Frieze is a prominent figure in the field of computer science and a leading advocate for diversity and inclusion in STEM. As the director of Women@SCS and SCS4ALL professional organizations at Carnegie Mellon University, she has played a crucial role in attracting and retaining women in computing.
Alexandra Elbakyan
Alexandra Elbakyan, born in 1988 in Almaty, Kazakhstan, is a Kazakhstani computer programmer and the creator of the website Sci-Hub. She gained recognition for providing free access to research papers without regard for copyright, and has been celebrated for her efforts to make scholarly literature accessible to all.
Daniela L. Rus
Daniela L. Rus, a renowned roboticist and computer scientist, is the Director of the MIT Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory (CSAIL). With her expertise and visionary leadership, she has made significant contributions to the field of robotics and computer science. Rus is widely recognized for her outstanding contributions and has received numerous accolades, including an NSF Career award, an Alfred P. Sloan Foundation fellowship, and the prestigious MacArthur Fellowship.
Marian Croak
Marian Rogers Croak is a Vice President of Engineering at Google, renowned for her significant contributions to the field of telecommunications. Born on May 14, 1955, in New York City, Croak’s early fascination with science and technology was nurtured by her father, who built her a home chemistry set.
Roberta Bondar
Roberta Bondar, born in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario in 1945, is Canada’s first female astronaut and the first neurologist to travel to space. Her groundbreaking research focused on studying the effects of low-gravity situations on the human body, allowing NASA to better prepare astronauts for long-duration missions. Bondar’s contributions to space medicine research, along with her passion for nature conservation and environmentalism, have made her a respected figure in the scientific and medical communities.
Sue Ion
Dame Susan Ion is a prominent British engineer and expert advisor on the nuclear power industry. Throughout her career, Ion has made significant contributions to the field, including promoting the importance of nuclear power and shaping its direction and future prospects. Her dedication and passion for science and technology have made her a role model for aspiring engineers, particularly women in traditionally male-dominated fields.
Nicole M. Joseph
Nicole M. Joseph is an American mathematician and scholar of mathematics education. Her research focuses on the experiences of African-American girls and women in mathematics, the effects of white supremacist reactions to their work in mathematics, and the intersectional nature of educational inequity. She has authored and edited several books and was awarded the Louise Hay Award for her contributions to mathematics education.
Christina Richey
Christina “Chrissy” Richey is an American planetary scientist and astrophysicist known for her significant contributions to the field. Richey currently works at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) in La Cañada Flintridge, California, where she serves as a project staff scientist for the Europa Clipper mission and a research technologist in the Astrophysics and Space Sciences Section.
Carol E. Reiley
Carol Elizabeth Reiley is a pioneering American business executive, computer scientist, and model. She has made significant contributions to the development of teleoperated and autonomous robot systems in various fields. Reiley’s exceptional leadership abilities and dedication to technological advancement have earned her recognition as a leading entrepreneur and influential scientist.
Annie S. D. Maunder
Annie Scott Dill Maunder, an Irish-British astronomer, made groundbreaking contributions to solar astronomy. Her research on sunspots, particularly their movement over the sun’s 11-year cycle, revolutionized our understanding of solar activity. Despite facing gender discrimination, Annie’s talent and dedication led to her eventual recognition as a Fellow of the Royal Astronomical Society. Her perseverance and scientific advancements continue to inspire and shape our understanding of the sun.
Paola Velardi
Paola Velardi is a renowned computer scientist, known for her significant contributions to various fields of study. Her research in natural language processing, machine learning, business intelligence, and semantic web has made a profound impact. Velardi’s dedication to promoting diversity and inclusivity in the scientific community has shaped women’s history.
Sunita Williams
Sunita Lyn Williams, also known as Suni in the United States and Son?ka in Slovenia, is an American astronaut and United States Navy officer. She comes from a diverse heritage, with her paternal family hailing from Jhulasan, Gujarat, India, and her maternal family of Slovene descent. Williams holds several records in space exploration, including the most spacewalks by a woman and the most time spent on spacewalks for a woman. Through her accomplishments, Williams has inspired countless individuals and made a profound impact on society.
Margrethe II of Denmark
Margrethe II is Queen of Denmark and has reigned as the country’s monarch for over 50 years. She is known for her interest in archaeology and has actively participated in excavations in various countries. Margrethe’s dedication to preserving history has enriched Denmark’s cultural heritage. She has also been actively involved in state affairs, undertaking numerous foreign state visits, and is widely popular among the Danish people. Margrethe’s reign has left a lasting impact on the country and she is considered an inspirational figure for women worldwide.
Audrey S. Penn
Audrey Shields Penn, born in 1934, is an American neurologist and emeritus professor known for her groundbreaking research in the biochemistry of muscle weakness in myasthenia gravis. Penn’s contributions to the field of neurology have had a profound impact on our understanding of neurological disorders and have paved the way for advancements in treatment options. Moreover, her accomplishments as an African-American woman in a male-dominated field have made her an inspirational figure and a trailblazer for future generations.
Mareta West
Mareta Nelle West, the first female astrogeologist, played a crucial role in the Apollo 11 mission. Her expertise in lunar geography helped in selecting the site for the first manned lunar landing. West continued to contribute to the field of astrogeology and left an enduring legacy as a pioneer in her field.
Annie Leuch-Reineck
Annie Leuch-Reineck was a Swiss mathematician and women’s rights activist who played a crucial role in the Swiss women’s movement during the 1920s and 1930s. Motivated by a deep belief in the equality of women, she dedicated her life to advocating for women’s rights and challenging societal norms. Her contributions paved the way for progress in gender equality and women’s empowerment in Swiss society.
Alice Ball
Alice Augusta Ball was an American chemist who developed the “Ball Method,” the most effective treatment for leprosy at that time. Despite her remarkable achievements, her contributions to science were not recognized until many years after her untimely death at the age of 24. Her groundbreaking research and the “Ball Method” gained widespread recognition in the 1970s, establishing her as a true icon in the history of scientific breakthroughs and women’s empowerment.
Sandra Faber
Sandra Moore Faber is an American astrophysicist known for her research on the evolution of galaxies. She currently holds the position of University Professor of Astronomy and Astrophysics at the University of California, Santa Cruz, and works at the renowned Lick Observatory. Faber’s groundbreaking observations and discoveries have revolutionized our understanding of galaxies and their dynamics, making her a trailblazing figure in scientific history.
Nagima Aitkhozhina
Nagima Aitkhozhina was a Kazakh biologist who specialized in molecular biology. She made significant contributions to the study of the structural and functional organization of genomes and the molecular mechanisms of gene expression regulation. Aitkhozhina’s dedication to scientific research and leadership in academic institutions have left a lasting impact on the field of molecular biology.
Margaret Hutchinson Rousseau
Margaret Hutchinson Rousseau (1910-2000) was an American chemical engineer who designed the first commercial penicillin production plant. She was the first female member of the American Institute of Chemical Engineers. Her groundbreaking work in the development of deep-tank fermentation of penicillium mold enabled large-scale production of penicillin, saving countless lives during World War II. She continued to make significant contributions to the field of chemical engineering throughout her career, leaving an indelible mark on women’s history.
Euphemia Haynes
Martha Euphemia Lofton Haynes, the first African-American woman to earn a PhD in mathematics, dedicated her life to education and advocacy. Her groundbreaking journey led her to earn a PhD from the Catholic University of America in 1943. She made significant contributions to the educational system in Washington, D.C., and her advocacy work played a pivotal role in ending the track system that disadvantaged African-American students. Euphemia’s enduring legacy as a trailblazer continues to inspire generations.
Freda Bage
Anna Frederika (Freda) Bage was an Australian biologist, university professor, principal, and women’s activist. She paved the way for women’s education at The Women’s College, University of Queensland, where she served as the first principal for 32 years. Bage’s outstanding contributions in the field of biology, her leadership skills, and dedication to women’s rights left a lasting impact on academia in Australia. Her legacy continues to inspire women in their pursuit of knowledge and success.
Ngalula Mubenga
Ngalula Sandrine Mubenga, a Congolese engineer and government official, is renowned for her significant contributions to renewable energy and her efforts in promoting electrification initiatives in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Her dedication to addressing energy access issues in her home country, as well as her accomplishments in research, entrepreneurship, and philanthropy, have made her a leading figure in the field. Her work in sustainable energy and commitment to empowering future generations through STEM education have solidified her as an inspiring figure in women’s history.
Klara Löbenstein
Klara Löbenstein, a German mathematician, defied societal norms and became one of the first women in Germany to obtain a doctorate in mathematics. She made significant contributions to algebraic geometry and played a critical role in solving David Hilbert’s sixteenth problem. Despite facing setbacks and emigrating to Argentina during World War II, Löbenstein’s legacy as a pioneering mathematician continues to inspire future generations.
Satyawati Suleiman
Satyawati Suleiman, a pioneering Indonesian historian and archaeologist, made significant contributions to the field of Indonesian archaeology. She was one of the first women to pursue a career in archaeology in Indonesia, and the first female archaeology graduate from the University of Indonesia. Her dedication and expertise in the study of iconography and archaeological artifacts continue to inspire archaeological studies in Southeast Asia.
Kathryn Peddrew
Kathryn Peddrew was an African-American mathematician, engineer, and scientist who made significant contributions to aerospace technology and medical science. She played a crucial role in the NACA and NASA, working as a “human computer” and aerospace technologist. Her groundbreaking research at the National Institutes of Health on cancer and tuberculosis treatments helped save lives. Despite facing racial and gender barriers, Peddrew’s perseverance paved the way for future generations of minority scientists. She received numerous awards and recognition for her work throughout her career.
Sandra Cauffman
Sandra Cauffman, a Costa Rican-American specialist in electrical engineering and physics, has made significant contributions to the field of space science throughout her career. Born on May 10, 1962, in Costa Rica, Cauffman grew up in a one-parent home with limited resources in Hatillo. Despite the challenges she faced, Cauffman never gave up on her passion for space science. Inspired by the first Moon landing, she declared to her mother that she too wanted to explore the mysteries of the universe.
Marjorie Townsend
Marjorie Townsend was a pioneering figure in the field of space exploration, becoming the first woman to manage a spacecraft launch for NASA. She made significant contributions to the development and launch of the first satellite designed for x-ray astronomy, Uhuru, and played a vital role in the success of the Small Astronomy Satellite program. Her remarkable journey as an electrical engineer and space exploration pioneer continues to inspire and empower future generations.
Dorothy Maud Wrinch
Dorothy Maud Wrinch (1894-1976) was a prominent mathematician and biochemical theorist known for her groundbreaking work in deducing protein structure using mathematical principles. Born in Rosario, Argentina, she later moved to England and pursued her education in mathematics at Girton College, Cambridge. She played a significant role in supporting and promoting the work of Bertrand Russell and Ludwig Wittgenstein. Her contributions to the fields of mathematics and biochemistry continue to inspire scientists worldwide.
Karen Uhlenbeck
Karen Keskulla Uhlenbeck, born on August 24, 1942, is an American mathematician and one of the pioneers of modern geometric analysis. She is widely regarded as a trailblazer in the field and has made significant contributions to mathematics throughout her career. As a distinguished professor emeritus of mathematics at the University of Texas at Austin, she has played a pivotal role in shaping the discipline.
Louise Zung-nyi Loh
Louise Zung-nyi Loh, a Chinese mathematician, physicist, and educator, made significant contributions to her fields. Her passion for learning and dedication to her studies led her to become a respected scholar. She served as the chair of the Chinese students’ club at Wellesley College and conducted research on the effect of temperature on the absorption of fluorescein. Throughout her career, she taught mathematics and physics at various institutions in China and the United States and played a crucial role in ensuring the safety of foreign faculty during the Nanjing Massacre. Her legacy as a dedicated educator and philanthropist continues to inspire future generations.
Isabella Karle
Isabella Karle (1921-2017) was an American chemist who made significant contributions to crystallography. Her groundbreaking work in developing techniques to extract plutonium chloride played a crucial role in scientific research. Her contributions revolutionized X-ray crystallography and led to advancements in various scientific and industrial sectors. Isabella Karle’s immense contributions and dedication continue to inspire future generations.
Heather Couper
Heather Couper, a British astronomer and science popularizer, dedicated her career to making astronomy accessible to the public. Her passion for astronomy and ability to convey complex scientific concepts captured the imagination of many. Couper’s impact in popularizing astronomy in the United Kingdom and her trailblazing efforts as a woman in the field solidified her place in history as a champion of science education.
Dorrit Hoffleit
Ellen Dorrit Hoffleit, widely known as Dorrit Hoffleit, was an esteemed American senior research astronomer at Yale University. Her pioneering contributions in the field of astronomy earned her recognition and admiration from her peers. Born on March 12, 1907, she embarked on an extraordinary journey that would leave an indelible mark on the scientific community.
Marjorie Lee Browne
Marjorie Lee Browne (1914-1979), a pioneering African-American mathematician and educator, overcame numerous challenges to become one of the first African-American women to earn a PhD in mathematics. Her groundbreaking research and dedication to mathematics education paved the way for future generations of minority mathematicians. Although her life was tragically cut short, Browne’s legacy as a champion for diversity in STEM fields continues to inspire and empower others.
Deborah Raji
Deborah Raji is a highly accomplished Nigerian-Canadian computer scientist and activist who has made significant contributions to the field of technology. She is known for her work on algorithmic bias, AI accountability, and algorithmic auditing. Raji’s groundbreaking research on facial recognition technology biases has sparked a global conversation about the ethical implications of artificial intelligence. Her relentless pursuit of fairness and transparency in AI has earned her prestigious awards and recognition, cementing her place in women’s history and the fight for equality in the digital age.
Janet Friedman
Janet Friedman (1945-2002) was an American archaeologist who made major contributions to cultural resource management. She actively promoted gender equality in the field of cultural and environmental sciences throughout her career, mentoring and supporting women in her field. Friedman played a key role in the development of the Archaeological Resources Protection Act of 1979 (ARPA), shaping its policies and guidelines. Her influential contributions and commitment to gender equality have made her an important figure in women’s history.
Naoko Yamazaki
Naoko Yamazaki is a Japanese engineer and former astronaut who made history as the second Japanese woman to fly in space. She played a crucial role in the development of the Japanese Experiment Module and completed a mission on the Space Shuttle Discovery in 2010. Yamazaki’s dedication to her field and groundbreaking achievements have made her an inspiration in the world of space exploration.
Constanza Ceruti
María Constanza Ceruti, born in 1973 in Buenos Aires, Argentina, is an anthropologist and mountaineer who has made significant contributions to the field of anthropology and high-altitude archaeology. She has explored the Inca ceremonial centers on Andean peaks above 6,000 meters and has discovered the Children of Llullaillaco, the best-preserved mummies in the world. Ceruti’s research on sacred mountains worldwide has shed light on their religious and cultural significance. Her pioneering work has expanded our understanding of ancient civilizations and their relationship with mountainous landscapes.
Orna Berry
Orna Berry is an Israeli computer scientist, high-tech entrepreneur, and senior executive in the Israeli science and technology industries. She has made significant contributions to the field of computer science and has played a crucial role in promoting research and development in Israel.
Elizaveta Litvinova
Elizaveta Fedorovna Litvinova (1845–1919?) was a Russian mathematician and pedagogue. Despite facing many obstacles, she pursued her passion for mathematics and made significant contributions to the field of mathematics education. Her story is one of resilience, determination, and a passion for knowledge that continues to inspire women in mathematics today.
Erna Schneider Hoover
Erna Schneider Hoover (born June 19, 1926) is an American mathematician who is best known for her groundbreaking work in computerized telephone switching systems. Her invention revolutionized modern communication by preventing system overloads and enabling more robust phone service during peak calling times. Throughout her career, Hoover was a trailblazer for women in the field of computer technology.
Alice Wilson
Alice Evelyn Wilson, Canada’s first female geologist, conducted groundbreaking scientific studies of rocks and fossils in the Ottawa region from 1913 to 1963. Overcoming obstacles and prejudices, Wilson became a respected authority in geology, inspiring future generations of women in science. Her pioneering achievements have left an indelible mark on the scientific community.
Erika Lopez
Erika Lopez, a renowned Marine Conservationist and Island Sanctuary Protector, has dedicated her life to conserving and protecting the flora and fauna sanctuary of Malpelo. Through her partnerships with the Colombian Navy and Colombian National Parks, Erika has mobilized resources and raised awareness about the critical need to preserve the biodiversity hotspot. Her establishment of the Tropical East Pacific Marine Corridor and her passion for diving have made a lasting impact on marine conservation efforts.
Sandra Magnus
Sandra Hall Magnus is an American engineer and former NASA astronaut. Born on October 30, 1964, in Belleville, Illinois, Magnus has made significant contributions to the field of space exploration and has left an indelible mark on the history of women in STEM.
Shikoh Gitau
Dr. Shikoh Gitau is a Kenyan computer scientist known for her contributions to mobile applications and her commitment to promoting health and inclusive growth in Africa. She has been recognized for her innovative inventions and awarded the Google Anita Borg Memorial Scholarship. Gitau continues to play a vital role in African development through her work at the African Development Bank.
Phyllis Chinn
Phyllis Zweig Chinn, a renowned American mathematician, made significant contributions to the field of mathematics alongside her work in women’s studies and teaching preparation. Her passion for mathematics has had a profound impact on society, inspiring future generations. Chinn’s groundbreaking research in graph theory and her dedication to advancing mathematics education have solidified her legacy as a trailblazer in her field.
Bruna Forlati Tamaro
Bruna Forlati Tamaro (1894–1990) was an Italian archaeologist, classical scholar, and museum curator who made significant contributions to the field of archaeology. She played a crucial role in safeguarding Italy’s archaeological heritage and was a pioneer for women in the field. Her dedication, passion, and accomplishments will forever be remembered and celebrated.
Marta Graciela Rovira
Marta Graciela Rovira, an Argentine astrophysics researcher, became the first woman to be named president of CONICET. With a deep passion for astronomy, Rovira focused her research on studying the Sun. Her tenure as president witnessed a significant increase in government funding for CONICET, leading to a doubling of the total number of individuals affiliated with the organization. Rovira has received recognition for her exceptional contributions to the field of astrophysics, including a special mention by the Konex Awards in 2008.
France A. Córdova
France Anne-Dominic Córdova is an American astrophysicist and administrator who has made significant contributions to the field of science.
Belkis Valdman
Belkis Valdman (5 May 1942 – 1 August 2011) was a Turkish-born naturalized Brazilian researcher, teacher, and academic chemical engineer who made significant contributions to the field of instrumentation and process control in chemical engineering.
Eliana Rubashkyn
Eliana Rubashkyn is a New Zealand pharmacist and chemist who fought for her rights as an intersex person. Despite facing mistreatment and statelessness in Hong Kong, Rubashkyn demonstrated resilience and worked to support LGBTI asylum seekers and refugees. She eventually sought asylum in New Zealand, where she continues to advocate for the rights of the LGBTQI+ community.
Charlotte Scott
Charlotte Angas Scott was a British mathematician who played a crucial role in the development of American mathematics and the mathematical education of women. Her groundbreaking achievements include becoming one of the first British women to earn a doctorate in mathematics and challenging the rules of the Cambridge Mathematical Tripos Exam. She dedicated her career to Bryn Mawr College, where she taught mathematics for almost four decades, inspiring generations of women to pursue mathematical studies. Recognized for her contributions, Scott became the first female President of the American Mathematical Society in 1924.
Angela Camacho
Ángela Stella Camacho Beltrán, born on 5 February 1947, is a Colombian physicist and a prominent figure in the field of condensed matter physics. She holds the distinction of being the first Colombian woman to obtain a PhD in physics, paving the way for future generations of women in the field. Throughout her career, Camacho has made significant contributions to the study of solid state physics and low-dimensional physics.
Millie Hughes-Fulford
Millie Hughes-Fulford (1945-2021) was a pioneering American medical investigator, molecular biologist, and NASA payload specialist. Her groundbreaking mission aboard STS-40 Spacelab Life Sciences (SLS 1) in 1991 marked her as the first female payload specialist in orbit and the first representative of the United States Department of Veterans Affairs in space. Hughes-Fulford’s exceptional achievements and dedication to scientific exploration have inspired generations of women in STEM fields.
Mary Ellen Weber
Mary Ellen Weber (born August 24, 1962) is an American executive, scientist, aviator, and former NASA astronaut. She has made significant contributions to the fields of chemistry, engineering, and space exploration, leaving a lasting impact on society.
Jennifer Balakrishnan
Jennifer Shyamala Sayaka Balakrishnan is an American mathematician known for her expertise in algorithmic number theory and arithmetic geometry. She gained prominence for leading a team that successfully solved the “cursed curve” problem, a famously difficult Diophantine equation.
Irène Joliot-Curie
Irène Joliot-Curie, born in 1897 in Paris, France, was a French chemist, physicist, and politician. Alongside her husband Frédéric Joliot-Curie, she was awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1935 for their discovery of induced radioactivity, following in her parents’ footsteps of winning Nobel Prizes. She also played an influential role in French politics, becoming one of the first women in French history to hold a government position. Tragically, she passed away in 1956 due to acute leukemia, attributed in part to her exposure to polonium and X-rays during her scientific research.
Martha Locke Hazen
Martha Locke Hazen (1931-2006) was an influential American astronomer known for her contributions to the field, particularly her work as curator of the Harvard astronomical photographs collection and her research on variable stars. She played a crucial role in preserving and organizing the Harvard Plate Archives and was dedicated to advancing the status of women in academia. Hazen’s legacy extends beyond her achievements in astronomy and serves as an inspiration to aspiring scientists.
Sally Ride
Sally Kristen Ride was an American astronaut and physicist who paved the way for women in space exploration. She became the first American woman to fly in space and made significant contributions to NASA’s space program. Beyond her extraordinary career, Ride’s personal life also showcased her diversity and the importance of inclusivity in all fields. Her dedication, intelligence, and passion continue to inspire generations to pursue their dreams.
Pamela L. Gay
Pamela L. Gay, an American astronomer, is known for her work in astronomical podcasting and citizen science projects. She has made significant contributions to galactic astronomy through her research and has a passion for science popularization and educational outreach. Pamela has also been involved in various positions within the field of astronomy education and research, and is the director of CosmoQuest.
Lise Meitner
Lise Meitner, born in 1878 in Vienna, Austria, was a renowned physicist who made significant contributions to the fields of radioactivity and nuclear physics. She is best known for her role in the discovery of the element protactinium and her groundbreaking work on nuclear fission. Despite facing discrimination and persecution as a Jewish woman in Nazi Germany, Meitner’s dedication to scientific pursuits and her resilience continue to inspire generations of aspiring scientists.
Brie Code
Brie Code is an AI video game programmer and influential figure in the gaming industry. Through her work on games such as Assassin’s Creed, Child of Light, and #SelfCare, she has demonstrated a commitment to pushing the boundaries of game design, emphasizing care and characters.
Catherine G. Wolf
Catherine Gody Wolf (1947-2018) was an American psychologist and expert in human-computer interaction. She made significant contributions to the field and left a lasting impact on both the scientific community and society as a whole. Despite facing the challenges of ALS, she continued her work and published groundbreaking research that shed light on the impact of the disease on cognition and communication. Her legacy continues to inspire and shape future generations of researchers and innovators.
Mary Emilie Holmes
Mary Emilie Holmes was a pioneering American geologist and educator who made significant contributions to the fields of geology and women’s education. She became the first woman to be elected a fellow of the Geological Society of America and played a crucial role in establishing an educational institution for young black women that later became Mary Holmes College. Her dedication to women’s education and groundbreaking achievements in geology left a lasting impact on society.
Manuela Garín
Manuela (Mane) Garín Pinillos de Álvarez was a Spanish-born and Cuban-raised mathematician who became one of the first women to study mathematics at the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM). She has been named as a pioneer of mathematics in Mexico. Garín specialized in applied mathematics involving the mathematical modeling of the Earth’s magnetic field, and played a pivotal role in promoting the importance of mathematics education in Mexico.
Patsy O’Connell Sherman
Patsy O’Connell Sherman was an American chemist and co-inventor of Scotchgard, a stain repellent and water repellent product. She defied societal expectations and pursued a scientific career after an aptitude test suggested she become a housewife. Sherman made significant contributions to 3M, co-inventing Scotchgard by accident. Her innovative work revolutionized the textile industry and earned her numerous patents and awards. She advocated for women in science and inspired young women to pursue careers in the sciences.
Susan Mary Auld
Susan Mary Auld (1915-2002), born Susan Denham Christie in Tynemouth, was a pioneering woman in naval architecture. She became the first woman to graduate as a naval architect from Durham University and made significant contributions to the shipbuilding industry. Despite facing discrimination, Susan’s talent and determination paved the way for greater gender diversity in a traditionally male-dominated field. Her remarkable career and indomitable spirit continue to inspire generations of women in naval architecture.
Deborah Ajakaiye
Deborah Enilo Ajakaiye, the first female physics professor in Africa, made significant contributions to geophysics, revolutionizing mining operations in Nigeria. Raised in a household that valued equal education for both genders, Ajakaiye’s passion for mathematics eventually led her to geophysics. Her expertise in geovisualization techniques and the creation of a gravity map of Nigeria have been instrumental in locating mineral deposits and groundwater resources. Ajakaiye’s impact extends beyond her scientific achievements, as she founded a charity organization to empower Nigerian communities. Her brilliance and unwavering commitment to advancing scientific knowledge and women’s empowerment make her an inspiration in women’s history.
Nia Imara
Nia Imara, an American astrophysicist, artist, and activist, has made significant contributions to astrophysics and astronomy. Her journey began in the San Francisco Bay Area, where her passion for science and the universe flourished. She earned her bachelor’s degree in mathematics and physics from Kenyon College and went on to become the first African-American woman to earn a Ph.D. in astrophysics from the University of California, Berkeley. Imara’s groundbreaking research has advanced our understanding of stellar nurseries and she continues to inspire through her activism and mentorship.
Violet B. Haas
Violet Bushwick Haas was a pioneering American applied mathematician who dedicated her career to advocating for women in STEM fields. She became a professor at Purdue University College of Engineering and made significant contributions to control theory and optimal estimation. Her resilience and dedication to supporting women students in engineering have left an indelible mark on the field of mathematics.
Paris Pişmiş
Marie Paris Pişmiş de Recillas, known as Mari Sukiasian, was an Armenian-Mexican astronomer who played a crucial role in establishing Mexico’s importance in astronomical education and research. She was the first woman to obtain a Ph.D. from the Science Faculty of Istanbul University and went on to become the first professional astronomer in Mexico. Pişmiş’s extensive research and dedication to teaching left a lasting impact on the field of astronomy and inspired future generations of astronomers, including her daughter and granddaughter.
Eleanor Annie Lamson
Eleanor Annie Lamson (19 April 1875 – 27 July 1932) was an astronomer and the first woman scientist at the US Naval Observatory. Lamson’s expertise and meticulous research paved the way for future women scientists, inspiring generations of women to pursue careers in astronomy and other scientific fields.
Karen Holford
Karen Margaret Holford is a Welsh engineer and Professor of Mechanical Engineering. She has made significant contributions to the field of engineering throughout her career, with a focus on damage assessment inspections using acoustic emission. Holford has also been actively involved outside of academia, serving as a faculty advisor for Cardiff University’s Formula Student team and assuming roles in various organizations. She has received prestigious awards for her work, including being named a Commander of the Order of the British Empire and a Fellow of the Royal Academy of Engineering.
Melba Roy Mouton
Melba Roy Mouton, an American mathematician, played a crucial role in NASA’s trajectory and geodynamics programs in the 1960s. Her remarkable career spanned various key roles at NASA, including Head Mathematician for Echo Satellites 1 and 2, Head Computer Programmer, and Program Production Section Chief. Mouton’s dedication and expertise earned her prestigious awards and recognition, highlighting her vital contributions to space research and mathematics. Her legacy continues to inspire mathematicians, scientists, and women worldwide.
Anicia Peters
Anicia Peters, a renowned Namibian computer scientist, is the CEO of the National Commission of Research, Science, and Technology (NCRST). With expertise in human-computer interaction (HCI), Peters has made significant contributions to technology and research. She has earned several awards, including the Rector’s Medal and the Prof. Yrjö Neuvo Award, for her outstanding achievements in information technology. Peters is also a strong advocate for women in computing and has organized various initiatives to promote women’s involvement in the field.
Bonnie J. Dunbar
Bonnie Jeanne Dunbar, born on March 3, 1949, is an American engineer and retired NASA astronaut. She is widely recognized for her significant contributions to the field of space exploration over the years. Dunbar’s career took her on five Space Shuttle missions between 1985 and 1998, encompassing two dockings with the Mir space station.
Irma Wyman
Irma M. Wyman (1928-2015) was an early computer engineer and the first woman to become vice president of Honeywell, Inc. She made significant contributions to the field of computer science and was a pioneer for women in technology. Her dedication and determination shattered gender barriers in the tech industry, inspiring future generations of women engineers.
Serena Auñón-Chancellor
Serena Maria Auñón-Chancellor, an American physician, engineer, and NASA astronaut, has made significant contributions to space exploration and aerospace medicine. She has received prestigious awards for her work, including the 2009 Julian E. Ward Memorial Award from the Aerospace Medical Association. Her dedication to advancing medical knowledge and ensuring the well-being of astronauts has left an indelible mark on the field of aerospace medicine.
Julie Dachez
Julie Dachez is a French social psychologist, lecturer, and autism rights activist. In 2016, she made history as the first openly autistic person to defend a thesis on autism in France. Dachez is dedicated to challenging societal perceptions of autism and advocating for the rights of autistic individuals. She has also published two books on autism and is actively involved in educating others and combating prejudice associated with autism.
Isabel P. Montañez
Isabel Patricia Montañez is a renowned paleoclimatologist who specializes in studying the geochemical records of ancient climate change. Born in Geneva, Switzerland, to a Swiss mother and Colombian father, Montañez’s childhood was marked by moves to different countries. In 1969, she relocated to the United States, settling in Pennsylvania.
Margarete Zuelzer
Margarete Hedwig Zuelzer was a German biologist and zoologist who defied societal norms by pursuing a career in science. Despite facing numerous challenges as a woman, she earned her doctorate and made significant contributions to the field of protozoology. However, her career was cut short by the discriminatory policies of Nazi Germany, and she tragically died in the Westerbork Transit Camp during the Holocaust. Her story serves as a reminder of the injustice and devastation caused by this dark period in history.
Agnes Mary Clerke
Agnes Mary Clerke, born in 1842 in Skibbereen, County Cork, Ireland, was an influential astronomer and writer. Inspired by her father’s interest in astronomy, she developed a passion for the stars at an early age. Her groundbreaking contributions to the field of astronomy and her dedication to the study of the universe made her a trailblazer in the scientific community.
Elayne Arrington
Elayne Arrington, an American mathematician and engineer, overcame numerous obstacles throughout her career to become a trailblazer for women, particularly African American women, in the fields of mathematics and engineering. Her exceptional aptitude in mathematics led her to become the second-highest scorer on the SAT in her class, despite facing discrimination in her academic journey. Despite these challenges, Arrington’s determination to succeed propelled her to become the first African American woman to graduate from the School of Engineering at the University of Pittsburgh and earn a Ph.D. in mathematics. Her accomplishments have shattered stereotypes and paved the way for future generations of women and minorities in STEM fields.
Njema Frazier
Njema Frazier, a prominent figure in the field of nuclear physics, has made significant contributions to scientific advancements and nuclear safety. Her passion for mathematics and science led to a successful career, including working at the Department of Energy’s National Nuclear Security Administration. Frazier is also an advocate for diversity and inclusion in STEM fields.
Margaret Harwood
Margaret Harwood (1885-1979) was an American astronomer and the first director of the Maria Mitchell Observatory. She made significant contributions to the field of astronomy, focusing on photometry and studying the light variations of stars and asteroids. Harwood broke down gender barriers in the field and gained access to the Mount Wilson Observatory, becoming the first woman to use its 60-inch telescope. She faced societal prejudices but persevered, leaving a lasting legacy in astronomy and women’s history. She was honored with an asteroid named 7040 Harwood in her honor.
Mary Ross Ellingson
Mary Ross Ellingson (1906–1993) was a Classical archaeologist who revolutionized the field with her groundbreaking research on terracotta figurines in ancient Greece. Despite facing obstacles and having her work plagiarized, Ellingson’s dedication and passion have solidified her legacy. Her contributions continue to inspire and inform researchers today, making her a significant figure in women’s history and the field of archaeology.
Rita Orji
Rita Orji is a Nigerian-Canadian computer scientist and Canada Research Chair in Persuasive Technology. She has won over 70 awards and recognitions for her work in human-computer interaction, and has addressed a United Nations panel and the Parliament of Canada. Orji’s research focuses on designing interactive systems for health and well-being.
Brigitte Plateau
Brigitte Plateau, a French computer scientist, has made significant contributions to the field of computer science. With a passion for mathematics and problem-solving, she pursued her academic journey at the École Normale Supérieure at Fontenay-aux-Roses. Plateau’s expertise lies in the performance of computer systems, and she is recognized for her research on queueing models, distributed algorithms, and massively parallel computers. She has also been a vocal advocate for gender equality in academia.
Gladys West
Gladys Mae West, an American mathematician, is renowned for her groundbreaking contributions to the modeling of the Earth’s shape and her pivotal work in the development of satellite geodesy models that were incorporated into the Global Positioning System (GPS). Her exceptional achievements have had a significant impact on scientific and technological advancements.
Frances A. Rosamond
Frances Ann Novak Rosamond, born in 1943, is an Australian computer scientist who has made significant contributions to the field of computer education and parameterized complexity. Known for her expertise in these areas, she has dedicated her career to advancing computational knowledge and promoting the inclusion of women in computer science.
Laurel Clark
Laurel Clark, a NASA astronaut and medical doctor, had an accomplished and driven life that was tragically cut short. She obtained her medical degree from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and pursued a military career, specializing in diving medicine and submarine medical officer training. Clark’s ultimate dream of journeying to space became a reality when she was selected for mission STS-107. Unfortunately, she lost her life in the catastrophic Space Shuttle Columbia disaster. Clark’s dedication and sacrifice were posthumously honored with the Congressional Space Medal of Honor.
Ximena Cid
Ximena Cid is a Chicana and Indigenous American physicist, who is an advocate for increasing diversity and supporting minority students in STEM and physics. She is the chair of the physics department and an associate professor at California State University Dominguez Hills. She earned a PhD in physics from the University of Texas at Arlington, becoming the first Latina and Indigenous person to do so.
Christiane Nüsslein-Volhard
Christiane (Janni) Nüsslein-Volhard is a renowned German developmental biologist who received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1995. She holds the distinction of being the only woman from Germany to have received a Nobel Prize in the sciences.
Jeanne Dumée
Jeanne Dumée (1660-1706), a French astronomer and author, made significant contributions to astronomy and challenged prevailing scientific beliefs. She published a groundbreaking work, “Entretiens sur l’opinion de Copernic touchant la mobilité de la terre,” showcasing her deep understanding of the subject and advocating for gender equality in the scientific community. Dumée’s legacy as a pioneering female astronomer paved the way for future generations.
Joséphine Guidy Wandja
Joséphine Guidy Wandja (born 1945, also Guidy-Wandja) is an Ivorian mathematician. She is best known for being the first African woman to obtain a PhD in mathematics. Wandja’s life and work have not only paved a path for future generations of African women in the field of mathematics, but also made significant contributions to the global mathematical community.
Madeleine M. Joullié
Madeleine M. Joullié, an American-Brazilian organic chemist, was the first woman to join the University of Pennsylvania chemistry faculty and the first female organic chemist to be appointed to a tenure track position in a major American university. Her work in synthesizing organic compounds has led to the development of antibiotic and antiviral drugs.
Sara Yorke Stevenson
Sara Yorke Stevenson was an American archaeologist, suffragist, and women’s rights activist. She played a vital role in the establishment of the University of Pennsylvania Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology, and was the first curator of the Egyptian Collection. Stevenson’s remarkable contributions to the field of archaeology, as well as her activism for women’s rights, continue to inspire and empower women today.
Joan Higginbotham
Joan Elizabeth Higginbotham, born on August 3, 1964, in Chicago, Illinois, became a renowned NASA astronaut. Throughout her career, she actively participated in 53 space shuttle launches during her 9-year tenure at Kennedy Space Center. Her groundbreaking achievements serve as a testament to the power of determination and hard work. She has paved the way for future generations, especially women, to pursue careers in space exploration.
Johanna Mestorf
Johanna Mestorf was a pioneering figure in prehistoric archaeology, serving as the first female museum director in the Kingdom of Prussia and often referred to as the first female professor in Germany. Her extensive travels, translations, and writings on archaeology and ethnography solidified her reputation as a notable figure within the archaeological community. Her remarkable contributions to the field and commitment to advancing knowledge continue to inspire future generations of female scholars.
Valerie Thomas
Valerie L. Thomas is an American data scientist and inventor, known for her groundbreaking work in image processing and the invention of the illusion transmitter. She excelled in mathematics and science, graduating with a degree in physics with highest honors. Thomas played a crucial role in developing computer data systems for satellite operations and oversaw the creation of the Landsat program. She invented the illusion transmitter, which has become an indispensable tool for NASA and has found applications in various fields. Thomas’s achievements and pioneering spirit continue to inspire future generations.
Erica Baker
Erica Joy Baker (born 1980) is an engineer in the San Francisco Bay Area, Chief Technology Officer for the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee, and known for her outspoken support of diversity and inclusion. She gained prominence in 2015 for starting an internal spreadsheet where Google employees reported their salary data to better understand pay disparities within the company. Baker’s advocacy for diversity and inclusion has had a resounding impact, making her a woman to watch and an inspiration for future generations of technologists.
Anna Anthropy
Anna Anthropy, an American video game designer, has made a significant impact in the world of gaming. Born in California in 1984, Anthropy has dedicated her career to creating unique and thought-provoking games that challenge conventional norms and explore a wide range of themes. Her games often examine the relationship between sadism and player experiences, pushing players to question the conventions of the gaming industry. Anthropy’s advocacy for inclusivity and diversity in the gaming industry continues to inspire aspiring game developers to tell their own stories and perspectives.
Maria Gaetana Agnesi
Maria Gaetana Agnesi was an Italian mathematician, philosopher, theologian, and humanitarian. She is considered one of the most important female mathematicians in history. Agnesi displayed remarkable intellectual abilities from a young age, mastering multiple languages and studying advanced subjects like ballistics and geometry. She published her renowned work, “Instituzioni analitiche ad uso della gioventù italiana,” which solidified her reputation as a brilliant mathematician. Despite facing challenges and limitations as a woman in academia, Agnesi’s intelligence and dedication paved the way for future generations of women in mathematics.
Toni Scullion
Toni Scullion is a Scottish computer science teacher known for her dedication to advancing computing science education and closing the gender gap in the field. Born and raised in Scotland, Scullion has made significant contributions to the promotion of computer science in schools and the empowerment of female students.
Natalie Gibb
Natalie Gibb, a prominent figure in cave exploration and underwater photography, has made significant contributions to the field of diving. Born in Orange County, California in 1980, Gibb developed a passion for adventure and exploration from an early age. Her upbringing in the natural beauty of her surroundings played a pivotal role in shaping her career.
Mae Jemison
Mae Carol Jemison, the first African-American woman to travel into space, was born on October 17, 1956, in Decatur, Alabama. Inspired by Star Trek and Nichelle Nichols’ portrayal of Lieutenant Uhura, Jemison pursued her passion for science and space exploration. She earned degrees in chemical engineering and African and African-American studies from Stanford University before obtaining her medical degree from Cornell University. Jemison joined the Peace Corps in 1983 and worked as a doctor in Liberia and Sierra Leone. In 1987, she was selected to join NASA’s astronaut corps and made history aboard the Space Shuttle Endeavour in 1992. Jemison continues to promote science education and support space exploration through her various endeavors and has received numerous awards and accolades for her pioneering achievements.
Martine Kempf
Martine Kempf, a French computer scientist, invented the Katalavox in 1985, a computer-based voice activation system. Inspired by German teenagers born without arms, Kempf believed her invention could assist those with physical difficulties. Kempf’s father, who was paralyzed from the waist down, further motivated her to find innovative solutions for individuals with physical disabilities. Today, Kempf is the CEO of KEMPF Inc., specializing in adapting vehicles for drivers with disabilities and advancing surgical microscopes.
Jane Simpson
Jane Simpson is a pioneering engineer and influential figure in the field of transportation infrastructure. As the Head of Asset Creation at Severn Trent Water and the former Chief Engineer at Network Rail, Simpson has consistently shattered glass ceilings and pushed the boundaries of what women can achieve in male-dominated industries.
Ada Yonath
Ada Yonath, born in 1939 in Jerusalem, is an Israeli chemist and Nobel laureate crystallographer known for her groundbreaking work on the structure of ribosomes. Despite financial challenges, Yonath excelled academically and pursued her passion for science. Her research on ribosome structure revolutionized our understanding of protein synthesis and led to advancements in antibiotic development. In 2009, she became the first Israeli woman to win a Nobel Prize in Chemistry.
Wang Zhenyi
Wang Zhenyi, an extraordinary woman of 18th century China, defied societal constraints to become a renowned scientist. She excelled in astronomy, mathematics, and poetry, making groundbreaking discoveries and contributions despite her short life. Her deep understanding of celestial phenomena and innovative solutions in mathematics showcased her brilliance. Wang Zhenyi’s accomplishments continue to inspire and pave the way for future generations.
Beryl May Dent
Beryl May Dent, an English mathematical physicist and technical librarian, played a crucial role in the development of early analogue and digital computers. Her groundbreaking research on interatomic forces and data analysis has had a lasting impact on the scientific community. Despite her role as a librarian, Dent continued to contribute to scientific research and made valuable contributions to the field of semiconducting materials. Her achievements in mathematics, physics, and computer science have left an indelible mark on scientific research and engineering.
Maria Zuber
Maria T. Zuber, an American geophysicist, has made significant contributions to the field of planetary sciences. She grew up in Summit Hill, Pennsylvania, in a coal mining community which later influenced her career path. Zuber’s passion for science led her to pursue higher education at the University of Pennsylvania and later at Brown University, where she earned her Sc.M. and Ph.D. degrees in geophysics. Throughout her career, Zuber has played a key role in NASA planetary missions and has made groundbreaking advancements in our understanding of the solar system. Her accomplishments have not only established her as a leading figure in geophysics but also as an inspiration for future generations of women in STEM.
Daisy Yen Wu
Daisy Yen Wu was a pioneering Chinese woman in the fields of biochemistry and nutrition. Born into a wealthy family in Shanghai in 1902, she pursued her education in the United States and became the first Chinese woman to work as an academic researcher in these fields. Wu’s dedication to education and research led her to establish scholarships and make significant contributions to the scientific community. She passed away in 1993, leaving a lasting legacy on these fields.
Lim Hyesook
Lim Hye-sook was born in 1963 in South Korea. She is a renowned Korean electronics engineering professor at Ewha Womans University, known for her exceptional contributions to the field of science and technology. Lim achieved a significant milestone in her career when she served as the Minister of Science and ICT under President Moon Jae-in from May 2021 to 2021, becoming the first woman to helm the country’s science ministry.
Helen Sharman
Helen Patricia Sharman, CMG, OBE, HonFRSC, was born on May 30, 1963, in Grenoside, Sheffield. She became the first British astronaut and the first Western European woman to travel to space. Sharman’s remarkable journey broke barriers and inspired generations, exemplifying the endless possibilities for women in science and technology.
Cecilia Wangechi Mwathi
Cecilia Wangechi Mwathi, the first woman in Kenya to become a mathematics professor, was known for her activism for higher education and inspiring Kenyan girls to study STEM. Despite growing up in poverty, she pursued education and eventually obtained a Ph.D. in mathematics. She dedicated her career to Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) and fought for the rights of faculty members as the secretary general of the UASU-JKUAT faculty union chapter. Her legacy lives on through her contributions to academia and the lives she touched.
Antonia Maury
Antonia Maury was an American astronomer who made significant contributions to the field of astronomy. She was the first to detect and calculate the orbit of a spectroscopic binary, and her work on stellar classification laid the foundation for the International Astronomical Union’s system. Her dedication, perseverance, and groundbreaking research have cemented her place in history as one of the most influential astronomers of her time.
Gulli Petrini
Gulli Charlotta Petrini, born in Stockholm in 1867, was a remarkable Swedish physicist, writer, suffragette, women’s rights activist, and politician. Her progressive father’s influence shaped her early life, encouraging her to pursue education and a career despite societal expectations. Petrini’s groundbreaking achievements in education, suffrage activism, and politics made her a trailblazer for women’s empowerment in Sweden.