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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.
Julia Kempe is a renowned researcher in quantum computing, hailing from France, Germany, and Israel. She currently holds the esteemed positions of Director of the Center for Data Science at NYU and Professor at the Courant Institute. Kempe’s life and career have been marked by her invaluable contributions to the field of quantum computing, earning her recognition and praise.
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.
Emma Haruka Iwao is a Japanese computer scientist and cloud developer advocate at Google. With her expertise in the Google Cloud Platform (GCP), Iwao offers comprehensive training and support to application developers. In March 2019, she made global headlines by calculating the value of pi to an astonishing 31,415,926,535,897 digits. Continuing to push the boundaries, she shattered her own record in 2022, calculating pi to an astounding 100 trillion digits. Iwao’s groundbreaking work and dedication have earned her admiration and respect, inspiring future generations of mathematicians and technologists.
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.
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.
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).
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.
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.
Lynn Ann Conway, an American computer scientist and transgender activist, made significant contributions to the field of computer science. She overcame personal challenges and revolutionized the computer industry through her innovative work in microchip design and instruction handling. Her journey as a transgender woman has inspired future generations and promoted diversity and inclusion in technology.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Dora Metcalf, an India-born Irish entrepreneur, mathematician, and computing pioneer, made significant contributions to computing and played a crucial role in codebreaking efforts during World War II. Her career flourished as she sold comptometers throughout Ireland, but her true breakthrough came when she supplied decryption machines to codebreakers at Bletchley Park, greatly impacting the war’s outcome. Dora’s determination and pioneering spirit paved the way for future generations of women in technology.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Marianne Laqueur, a German Jewish refugee to Turkey, was a pioneering computer scientist and local politician. Forced to emigrate due to Nazi persecution, she settled in Ankara and became part of the Haymatloz community. Laqueur had a distinguished career in computer science, working for companies like IBM and NCR, and later dedicated herself to local politics, serving on the Wiesbaden city council.
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.
Keren Elazari, also known as k3r3n3, is an Israeli cybersecurity analyst, writer, and speaker. She is a senior researcher at the Tel Aviv University Interdisciplinary Cyber Research Center. Elazari’s interest in hacking began at a young age, and she went on to become a white-hat hacker. She has given several talks on the positive impact hackers can have on cybersecurity and is the first Israeli woman to give a TED Talk.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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.”
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.
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.
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.
Kathleen Rita Antonelli, also known as Kay McNulty, was a pioneering computer programmer who made significant contributions to the early development of computing technology. Born in 1921 in Feymore, Ireland, she overcame challenges and excelled academically, ultimately becoming one of the six original programmers of the groundbreaking ENIAC computer. McNulty’s exceptional analytical skills and expertise in mathematics were instrumental in the success of the ENIAC and her work paved the way for the future of computer programming.
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.
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.
Rediet Abebe is an Ethiopian computer scientist known for her groundbreaking work in algorithms and artificial intelligence. She focuses on developing frameworks to address issues of inequality and distributive justice. Abebe co-founded the multi-institutional research initiatives MD4SG and Black in AI. She completed her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees at Harvard University, and her PhD at Cornell University, becoming the first Black woman to complete a PhD in computer science at Cornell. Abebe is currently an assistant professor at the University of California, Berkeley.
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.
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.”
Francisca Oladipo is a distinguished Nigerian Professor of Computer Science, administrator, and author. Born in 1978, she has made significant contributions to the field of computer science while also breaking barriers as a pioneering woman in academia. As of 2022, Oladipo holds the prestigious position of Vice-Chancellor at Thomas Adewumi University in Nigeria.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Adji Bousso Dieng is a Senegalese Computer Scientist and Statistician who has made significant contributions in the field of Artificial Intelligence. Currently working as an Artificial Intelligence Research Scientist at Google Brain in Mountain View, California, Dieng’s research focuses on combining probabilistic graphical models and deep learning to extract meaningful structure from unlabelled data.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Joy Adowaa Buolamwini is a Ghanaian-American-Canadian computer scientist and digital activist based at the MIT Media Lab. She is widely recognized for her work in challenging bias in decision-making software and advocating for the ethical use of artificial intelligence (AI). Buolamwini founded the Algorithmic Justice League, an organization that uses art, advocacy, and research to raise awareness of the social implications and harms of AI.
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.
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.
Larissa Suzuki, an accomplished University Professor and computer scientist, has dedicated her career to advancing engineering and technology while advocating for increased representation in these fields. She is known for her work at Google, as well as her contributions to smart cities and early breast cancer detection. Born in Brazil, Suzuki’s exceptional talent led her to be recognized as the best student of her class by the Brazilian Computer Society.
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.
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.
Małgorzata Kalinowska-Iszkowska (born 29 July 1946) is a Polish computer scientist, educator, and activist. She has made significant contributions to the field of information technology (IT) and has been recognized for her achievements with the Polish Gold Cross of Merit. Kalinowska-Iszkowska’s career has been marked by her dedication to promoting the importance of women’s participation in technical professions.
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.
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.
Xia Peisu, known as the “Mother of Computer Science in China,” was a pioneering Chinese computer scientist and educator. She played a leading role in the development of Model 107, the nation’s first domestically designed general-purpose electronic computer. Xia’s contributions to computer science and technology in China were immense, and she inspired and mentored many students who went on to become leaders in the field. Her groundbreaking work has left a lasting impact on China’s technological development and she is revered as one of the pioneers of computer science in the country.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Shamim Rajani, an entrepreneur from Karachi, Pakistan, has had a remarkable career in the Information Technology (IT) industry. As the co-founder and Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Genetech Solutions, she has showcased exceptional leadership skills and played a pivotal role in promoting women’s empowerment in the field. Through her initiatives, including CodeGirls and WomenInTechPK, Rajani continues to inspire and support women in technology, making a significant impact both nationally and internationally.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Jennifer Tour Chayes is a renowned mathematician and computer scientist, known for her expertise in data science. She is currently the Dean of the College of Computing, Data Science, and Society at the University of California, Berkeley. Throughout her career, Chayes has made significant contributions to the fields of mathematical physics, discrete mathematics, and computer science. She has received numerous awards and recognition for her groundbreaking work in data science and interdisciplinary collaboration.
Karen Petrie is a prominent British computer scientist who has made significant contributions to the field of constraints programming. Born and raised in the United Kingdom, she developed a passion for computer science at a young age and went on to become one of the leading experts in her field.
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.
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.
Thelma Estrin was an American computer scientist and engineer who made significant contributions in the fields of expert systems and biomedical engineering. Throughout her career, she pioneered the application of computer technology in healthcare and medical research, leaving a lasting impact on the field.
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).
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Marlyn Wescoff Meltzer (1922 – December 7, 2008) was one of the original programmers of ENIAC, the first general-purpose electronic digital computer. She played a crucial role in its development and, along with her colleagues, helped pave the way for the digital age. Meltzer’s dedication to volunteer work and her advocacy for women in technology further solidify her legacy as a pioneer and role model in the field of computer programming.
Jean Bartik was an influential pioneer in computer programming and one of the original programmers for the ENIAC computer. Her exceptional contributions to computing technology and trailblazing career made her a key figure in the history of women in computing. Despite facing limited educational opportunities, Bartik pursued her passion for mathematics and became a valued member of the ENIAC programming team. She continued to make groundbreaking contributions to computing throughout her career, leaving behind a lasting legacy that continues to inspire women in the field.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Annie Jean Easley, an American computer scientist and rocket scientist, overcame barriers and discrimination to become one of the first African-Americans to work at NASA. Her groundbreaking work in aerospace technology and her advocacy for inclusivity continue to inspire future generations.
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.