Women In Chemistry – Part 3
Around the world, March is celebrated as Women’s History Month.
Learn more about the most amazing women whose dedication and determination led to some of the most important discoveries in Chemistry and Physics.
Michelle Francl is an American chemist known for her work on theoretical chemistry and computational chemistry, which has led to new insights into the behavior of molecules and the fundamental processes of chemical reactions. But did you know that she is also a talented writer and poet?
Francl began writing poetry as a way to explore the emotional and creative aspects of science, and has published several collections of poems and essays exploring the intersections of science, literature, and spirituality. She often incorporates her love of literature and poetry into her scientific work, using metaphors and analogies to help explain complex scientific concepts.
Her work on theoretical chemistry and computational chemistry has had a profound impact on our understanding of the fundamental processes of chemistry, and has opened up new possibilities for developing new materials and technologies. Francl was awarded the 2019 American Chemical Society’s Philadelphia Section Award which recognizes an individual, “who, by conspicuous scientific achievement through research, has made important contributions to man’s knowledge and thereby aided the public appreciation of the profession.” Her love of poetry is a testament to the fact that pursuing diverse interests can lead to a more fulfilling and well-rounded life.
Chien-Shiung Wu was a Chinese-American physicist known for her groundbreaking work in the field of nuclear physics. Wu worked on the Manhattan Project, where she helped develop the process for separating uranium into uranium-235 and uranium-238 isotopes by gaseous diffusion. But did you know that she was also an accomplished cook?
Wu was known for her culinary skills, and often hosted elaborate dinner parties for her colleagues and students. She was particularly fond of Chinese cuisine, and was known for her skill in preparing a wide variety of dishes.
Her work on nuclear physics has had a profound impact on our understanding of the fundamental processes of the natural world, and has opened up new possibilities for developing new technologies. In 1975 as the first female president of the American Physical Society, Wu met with President Gerald Ford to formally request him to create an advisory scientific body for the president, which President Ford granted and signed into law the formation of the Office of Science and Technology Policy.
Angela Belcher is an American materials scientist known for her groundbreaking work on using biological molecules to create new materials and technologies, including the development of new batteries and solar cells. But did you know that she is also an accomplished artist?
Belcher has always been passionate about art, and often incorporates her artistic skills into her scientific work. She has created intricate illustrations of biological molecules and has even used her artistic skills to help design new materials and technologies.
In 2009 Belcher and her team demonstrated the feasibility of using genetically modified viruses to build both anode and cathode of a lithium-ion battery. These new batteries have the same energy capacity and power as cutting-edge rechargeable batteries earmarked for use in hybrid cars, as well as powering a range of electronic devices. The batteries could be manufactured using a cheap and environmentally friendly process, as the synthesis can be done near room temperature, using no harmful solvents or toxic materials.
