Biography:
Hadiyah-Nicole Green is an American medical physicist known for the development of a method using laser-activated nanoparticles as a potential cancer treatment. She is one of 66 black women to earn a Ph.D. in physics in the United States between 1973 and 2012 and is the second black woman and the fourth black person ever to earn a doctoral degree in physics from The University of Alabama at Birmingham.
Green was orphaned at a young age and raised by her aunt and uncle in St. Louis, Missouri. Growing up, she faced challenges and adversity, but she persevered and became the first in her family to attend college. After her high school graduation, Green attended a summer program in computer science at Xavier University of Louisiana. This experience ignited her passion for learning and set her on the path to become a strong advocate for Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).
With a full academic scholarship, Green enrolled at Alabama A&M University, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in Physics with a specialization in Optics and a minor in Mathematics in 2003. Her time at Alabama A&M not only provided her with a solid foundation in physics but also shaped her advocacy for HBCUs and their role in empowering young black students.
Green’s educational journey continued at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, where she earned her M.Sc. in Physics in 2009 and her Ph.D. in Physics in 2012. Her doctoral research, supervised by Sergey B. Mirov, focused on a minimally-invasive multifunctional nano-enabled approach for selective targeting, imaging, and NIR photothermal therapy of tumors. It was during this time that personal tragedy struck, as both her aunt and uncle were diagnosed with cancer.
Witnessing her loved ones suffer the side effects of traditional treatments, Green became determined to find a better solution. Inspired by her background in lasers and her internship at NASA, she developed a method using laser-activated nanoparticles to target cancerous cells while sparing healthy cells. This groundbreaking research has the potential to revolutionize cancer treatment and improve the quality of life for patients.
Green’s dedication to her work goes beyond the laboratory. She is a fierce advocate for increasing diversity and representation in STEM fields. Through her own achievements, she has become an inspiring role model for young black women aspiring to careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
In addition to her scientific contributions, Green is also recognized for her commitment to giving back. She has established the Ora Lee Smith Cancer Research Foundation in honor of her late aunt, which aims to support cancer patients and promote advancements in cancer treatment. Green’s extraordinary accomplishments, resilience in the face of adversity, and dedication to making a difference in the lives of others make her a true trailblazer and a remarkable figure in women’s history.
Awards:
– [List of awards and recognitions received by Hadiyah-Nicole Green] (if applicable)