Five scientists are honored by UNESCO and L’Oréal for breakthroughs in physics, mathematics and computing, highlighting Women, Science, and equal rights.
The UNESCO and the L’Oréal Foundation have announced the five laureates of the 2025 L’Oréal–UNESCO “Women in Science” International Awards.
The ceremony, to be held on June 12 in Paris, will recognize groundbreaking work in physics, mathematics and computer science with wide-ranging implications for energy, environmental protection, digital security and health.
These laureates exemplify the transformative impact women have on scientific progress and act as catalysts for future generations.
The awards honor achievements in fields where gender disparities persist. This 27th edition evaluated 466 nominees, with the winners chosen by an independent jury led by Fields Medalist Artur Ávila.
Their contributions include breakthroughs in:
Their discoveries hold the potential to strengthen global resilience and improve quality of life.
1. Environmental detection and electrochemical sensors
Awarded for developing high-sensitivity microsensors for pollutant detection, with applications in medicine, food safety, energy and pharmaceuticals.
2. Cryptography and digital security
Recognized for identifying critical vulnerabilities in widely used hash functions and contributing to the creation of new global security standards.
3. Topological quantum chemistry and green energy materials
Honored for pioneering work on advanced magnetic materials, opening new paths in sustainable technologies and bridging fundamental research with applied science.
4. High-energy physics leadership from Argentina
Acknowledged for key contributions to the discovery of the Higgs boson and the study of cosmic rays, strengthening Argentina’s role in global experimental physics.
5. Atmospheric pollution chemistry and public policy
Celebrated for revealing the molecular mechanisms behind photochemical smog and influencing major environmental regulations.
Despite progress, women represent only 31.1% of researchers worldwide. The L’Oréal–UNESCO program aims to challenge this imbalance by supporting women at every stage of their scientific careers.
To date, the program has supported more than 4,700 researchers, including:
UNESCO emphasizes that advancing women’s participation in science is essential to building sustainable and peaceful societies. The organization stresses that a diverse and equitable scientific community is crucial to addressing the world’s environmental, health and technological challenges.
