Women In Chemistry – Part 2
Around the world, March is celebrated as Women’s History Month.
Learn more about the most amazing women in Chemistry whose dedication and determination led to some of the most important discoveries.
Ada Yonath is an Israeli crystallographer known for her groundbreaking work on the structure of ribosomes, the molecular machines that synthesize proteins in all living cells. But did you know that she is also an accomplished musician?
Yonath began playing the piano as a child, and continued to study music throughout her life, even as she pursued a career in science. In fact, she often incorporates music into her scientific presentations, playing classical piano pieces to illustrate the structure and function of ribosomes.
Her work on ribosomes has had a profound impact on our understanding of the fundamental processes of life, and has paved the way for the development of new antibiotics and treatments for infectious diseases. In 2009, Yonath received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry for her studies on the structure and function of the ribosome, becoming the first Israeli woman to win the Nobel Prize.
Carolyn Bertozzi is an American chemist known for her pioneering work on bioorthogonal chemistry, a technique used to label and track biomolecules in living cells. But did you know that she is also an accomplished athlete?
Bertozzi is an avid runner, and has completed several marathons and half-marathons. When she was a child, Bertozzi wanted to be a professional soccer player, but back then, there was no such career for women. When she need to just think, Bertozziy likes to shooting basketball hoops in front of her house, finding that very meditative.
Her work on bioorthogonal chemistry has had a profound impact on our understanding of biological processes and has led to new diagnostic and therapeutic tools for a wide range of diseases. Bertozzi was awarded the 2022 Nobel Prize in Chemistry, “for the development of click chemistry and bioorthogonal chemistry”. Her love of sports is a testament to the fact that pursuing diverse interests can lead to a more fulfilling and well-rounded life.
Geri Richmond is an American chemist known for her work on surface chemistry and atmospheric chemistry, which has contributed to our understanding of the role of surfaces in chemical reactions and the impact of atmospheric aerosols on climate. But did you know that she is also a passionate advocate for women in science?
Richmond has been a tireless advocate for women in science, working to promote diversity and inclusion in the scientific community. She is the co-founder and current Chair of COACh, a grass-roots organization assisting in the advancement of women scientists and engineers in both the U.S. and in developing countries.
Using a combination of laser-based surface spectroscopic methods, thermodynamic techniques and molecular dynamics simulations, Richmond has made many important contributions to understanding fundamentals of liquid surfaces. She has received numerous awards for her research including the APS Davisson Germer Prize in Atomic or Surface Physics (2013), the ACS Joel Henry Hildebrand Award in the Theoretical and Experimental Studies of Liquids (2011).
