These female marine biologists, nanotechnologists, oncologists and professors encourage young girls to pursue careers in science and technology
“Women and girls belong in science. It is time to recognise that inclusion fosters innovation, and let every woman and girl fulfil her true potential,” said United Nations secretary-general António Guterres. To dismantle the barriers that hinders women from participating in the scientific community, the UN instituted the International Day of Women and Girls in Science. On February 11, the global celebration shines a light on the critical role of women in science and encourages all to support women in science and technology careers. In the region, the women leaders who work in scientific fields and champion its development from Asia’s Most Influential are showing young girls that they, too, can become marine biologists, nanotechnologists, medical doctors and professors.
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Jackie Ying, advisor, Biomedical Research Council of A*Star (Singapore)
Nanotechnologist Jackie Ying is recognised globally for her scientific work. She received the King Faisal Prize for Science laureate in 2023 for her work on the synthesis of various advanced nanomaterials and systems, and was elected Fellow of the US National Academy of Inventors, the highest professional accolade bestowed to academic inventors, in 2017. Ying contributes to the scientific community further as a founder and leader, establishing the Institute of Bioengineering and Nanotechnology in 2003, and now serving as an advisor of the Biomedical Research Council of A*STAR, the “convenor of significant research initiatives among the research community in Singapore”.