Biography:
Ibtesam Saeed Badhrees is a research scientist in experimental particle physics at King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST) and a Distinguished Fellow of New Westminster College. She is widely recognized for her contributions to the field of physics and for overcoming gender barriers as the first Saudi woman member of CERN.
Badhrees was born and brought up in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. From an early age, she showed a natural aptitude for science, particularly physics. After completing her secondary education, she enrolled at King Abdulaziz University, where she pursued a Bachelor of Science in Physics. During her undergraduate years, Badhrees distinguished herself as a dedicated and talented student, earning several accolades for her academic achievements.
Following her undergraduate studies, Badhrees had the opportunity to further her education abroad. She earned a Master of Science in Applied Physics/Laser from Fairleigh Dickinson University in the United States, deepening her knowledge in her chosen field. Her master’s thesis focused on laser applications in medical science, demonstrating her early interest in the intersection between physics and medicine.
Undeterred by the challenges she faced as a Saudi woman pursuing a career in physics, Badhrees continued to push boundaries. She pursued a Ph.D. in Particle Physics at the University of Bern in Switzerland, becoming the first Saudi woman to do so. Her doctoral research focused on experimental elementary particle physics, a field that investigates the fundamental building blocks of matter.
In addition to her contributions to her academic field, Badhrees also holds a Ph.D. in International Relations from the Geneva School of Diplomacy and International Relations. This multidisciplinary background speaks to her deep curiosity and ability to navigate diverse intellectual realms.
Badhrees’ research areas span various subfields of physics, including astrophysics, medical physics, and nuclear physics. Her work has been published in reputable scientific journals and presented at conferences worldwide. Her expertise and dedication have led her to be recognized by the scientific community and beyond.
Furthermore, Badhrees serves as an adjunct professor at Carleton University in Canada, where she shares her knowledge and experiences with the next generation of physicists. She has also been invited to deliver lectures and presentations at various institutions and conferences, promoting the advancement of women in STEM fields.
As a trailblazer for women in science, Badhrees has received numerous awards and recognitions throughout her career. She has been honored with the Saudi Arabian Cultural Mission Academic Excellence Award in both the United States and Europe. This recognition highlights her outstanding academic achievements and serves as an inspiration to other young women aspiring to pursue careers in science.
In 2007, Badhrees made history as the first Saudi woman to join CERN as a user researcher. This milestone moment opened new doors for Saudi women in the field of particle physics and brought international attention to her accomplishments.
Badhrees’ pioneering spirit and commitment to advancing scientific knowledge have been showcased in various publications and media outlets. She has been featured in Alsharaq Alawsat Journal, Saiduty Magazine, MBC in Saudi Arabia and Egypt, and Madame Figaro. Her remarkable journey has also been acknowledged by Laha Magazine, which recognized her as one of the distinctive women in Saudi Arabia in 2013.
Through her groundbreaking research, commitment to education, and triumph over societal barriers, Ibtesam Badhrees has established herself as a role model for aspiring scientists, especially women. Her unwavering spirit and dedication to pushing boundaries continue to pave the way for future generations of female physicists.
Awards:
– Saudi Arabian Cultural Mission Academic Excellence Award, United States, 1996–1997.
– Saudi Arabian Cultural Mission Academic Excellence Award, Europe, 2007.
– CERN, as the first Saudi woman to join the organization as a user researcher.