Celebrating Women in Science: Notable Contributions and Achievements

As we observe the International Day of Women and Girls in Science on February 11, it is essential to acknowledge the strides made by women in research and innovation. In 2020, only 28% of the world’s researchers were women, according to UNESCO. This day serves as a reminder of the barriers these women have faced and the remarkable achievements they continue to accomplish in the sciences.

Gabriela Ortíz, leader of the Women in Engineering and Sciences (MIC) initiative at Tec, emphasizes the importance of inviting young women to engage with science. “It’s very clear to us that there is interest in these areas, and it is these cultural and social barriers and biases that we want to overcome,” she notes.

Profiles of Remarkable Women in Science and Their Contributions

At CONECTA, we are proud to spotlight 25 outstanding women who have significantly impacted society through their research and scientific endeavors.

1. Janet Gutiérrez

As an acclaimed researcher in biology, biotechnology, and sustainable development, Janet received the 2020 Research Award from the Mexican Academy of Sciences. She currently serves as the director of the Regional Department of Bioengineering and Sciences.

2. Claudia Xóchitl Pérez

A recent graduate in Digital Systems Engineering and Robotics, Claudia is making advances in brain-computer interfaces. Her work utilizes electroencephalograms to enable control of devices like wheelchairs and prosthetics.

3. Rocío Ortiz

Specializing in the molecular study of diseases impacting women, Rocío is a Level 3 member of the National Research System and a research professor at the School of Medicine and Health Sciences.

4. Luz María Martínez

An associate professor at Rice University, Luz María leads educational innovations in chemistry and contributes to undergraduate research projects at Tec’s Monterrey campus.

5. Celine Rojas Schröter

At just 19 years old, Celine, a student of Engineering Physics, won the Rómulo Garza Award for her project exploring the relationship between temperature and magnetism.

6. Carmen Félix

The first Mexican analog astronaut, Carmen has worked with NASA to simulate conditions on Mars. Recognized by Forbes as one of Mexico’s 100 most powerful women, she focuses on empowering youth.

7. Grisel Trujillo

Grisel’s innovative research involves 3D-printing biological tissues and organs, aiming to provide solutions for transplantation needs.

8. Nélida López

A full professor at San Luis Potosí, Nélida has developed life-enhancing algorithms to assist type 2 diabetes patients.

9. Adriana Prieto

Dr. Prieto, a medical doctor and expert in molecular biology, previously directed a molecular laboratory focusing on diagnosis.

10. Karla Mayolo

A dedicated chemist specializing in biotechnology, Karla studies antibiotic resistance to help save lives through effective treatments.

11-13. Carmen Hernández, Rocío Díaz, and Perla Ramos

This trio of researchers from Monterrey received the National Prize for Food Science and Technology for enhancing the nutritional profile of Maradol papaya.

14. Ivana Collado

A robotics specialists, Ivana has contributed to numerous research projects focusing on technology used in autonomous robotics.

15. Aurea Ramírez

Aurea, a professor in Bioengineering at the Toluca campus, has focused her research on creating functional foods to combat obesity.

16. Ana Carolina Zavala

At the Saltillo campus, Ana works on developing cosmetic products using native Coahuila plants.

17. Julia Romero

Julia, a leader in biotechnology, focuses on molecular diagnosis in livestock and has secured funding for her innovative startups.

18. Raquel Vidorreta

Director of Innovation and Development Engineering, Raquel’s work includes renewable energy technology development, specifically hydrokinetic turbines.

19. Fabiola Regis

A professor dedicating her research to humanitarian logistics, Fabiola studies strategies to optimize food distribution in disaster scenarios.

20-21. Gabriela González and Mixara Muñoz

These innovative students founded Yekuali, a company that transforms cigarette butts into bioplastic, tackling public pollution challenges.

22. Viridiana Tejada-Ortigoza

As a biotechnology professor, Viridiana utilizes 3D food printing to provide dietary alternatives for specific health needs.

23. Deshiré Alpízar Rodríguez

An esteemed rheumatologist, Deshiré leads various international research initiatives in rheumatology.

24. Adriana Rubio

An Engineering Physics student, Adriana won the Mexican Space Agency’s national contest with a project aimed at aiding astronaut health.

25. Rosa Espiricueta

Rosa recently graduated with honors in Nanotechnology and Chemical Sciences and was awarded for her innovative gluten substitutes for baking.

As highlighted by the profiles above, the contributions of women in science are crucial for advancing knowledge and addressing societal challenges. Their achievements reflect the importance of fostering a more inclusive and diverse research environment.