From microbial lysis to protein complexes, Stefania Ketzetzi is uncovering the physics behind biological disassembly—paving the way for future breakthroughs in biomaterials, drug delivery, and tissue engineering.
Dr. Tomilola Olaolu’s mission-driven research explores how liver injury occurs—and how science can stop it. From investigating DNA damage in liver cells to uncovering plant-based protections, her work offers hope for targeted therapies and healthier communities.
Faizah Alabi is a PhD candidate in immuno-oncology working to develop safer, more precise cancer treatments for children and women affected by leukemia. Her research explores how the immune system, particularly T cells, can be harnessed to overcome cancer’s defenses—offering new hope through compassion-driven science.
Christina Kamerow is a museum educator and children’s book author who brings science to life for young learners through hands-on discovery and playful storytelling. Whether she’s leading interactive lessons with live animals or writing books that foster empathy for the natural world, Christina is committed to inspiring curiosity, connection, and a lifelong love of science.
Petty Officer Mia Knight has spent nearly a decade working on FA-18 fighter jets—and now she’s passing that knowledge on. As a dedicated instructor in the U.S. Navy, she’s mentoring junior sailors, championing scientific discovery, and reminding us that bold steps in service can fuel innovation in the sky and beyond.
Jasmin Graham is a marine biologist, shark researcher, and social justice advocate working at the intersection of science, equity, and community. As President and CEO of Minorities in Shark Sciences (MISS), she champions representation in marine biology while leading shark conservation efforts in the field. Whether she’s driving the research boat, mentoring students, or challenging narratives about misunderstood species, Jasmin empowers the next generation to lead with curiosity—and make waves.
Esther Okafor is investigating how inflammation disrupts fat stem cells and contributes to obesity-related disease. With each experiment, she brings us closer to science that not only heals—but builds stronger, healthier communities.
Nike Idowu is developing powerful new ways to fight antibiotic resistance — starting with a natural antifungal compound most have never heard of. Her research bridges chemistry, biology, and global health to protect our future.
Chinyere Eme is a doctoral student in civil engineering whose research blends groundwater modeling, geochemical analysis, and fieldwork to safeguard aquifers. From Memphis to Nigeria, her work turns data into action to protect clean, sustainable water systems.
Saemi Poelma is a materials scientist innovating with polymer composites to strengthen the tools we rely on, bringing science and storytelling together to solve real-world challenges.
Achini Ovitigala, a Ph.D. candidate in laser spectroscopy and atmospheric chemistry, investigates how mercury and other gases move through our air. Her research reveals what’s invisible to the eye—capturing data that helps improve environmental models and shape better policy.
As an Environmental Health Services Site Manager at Merck, Roser Rovira works behind the scenes to ensure research is conducted safely and sustainably—protecting scientists and the discoveries they make.
Brandi Cook is a PhD candidate at the University of South Florida with a goal to help research and develop assistive tools to increase human survivability.
Sneha Singh is a postdoctoral fellow working on ocular infections caused by RNA viruses.
Tabitha Wakhungu is a mechanical engineer who is passionate about turning complex ideas into impactful, real-world solutions through diverse and challenging engineering projects.
Aynsley Szczesniak is an aspiring reproductive endocrinologist at UNC Chapel Hill and founder/CEO of a global nonprofit focused on empowering STEM women.
Kazi Sarjana Safain is a cellular and molecular biology PhD student who specializes in the epigenetic regulation of developmental programming in livestock species.
Emeline Masterson is a biomedical sciences PhD candidate working to become a well-rounded scientist with the ability to make a significant impact on our community.
Leena Priya Makani is scientist at BioMarin Pharmaceuticals who focuses on gene editing with ethical considerations and a patient-centric approach.
Breaann Ortega-Robertsan is an ecological technician, who found herself through discovering a love for field science.
Anna Exley has wanted to do field work in wildlife since high school, and now she surveys bird populations in Montana.
Florence Obondo used her master’s of science in information and communication sciences as a foundation to pivot to cybersecurity.
Sandra Torres is the Founder and CEO of LaterAcademia, a company that helps scientists and researchers pivot their careers into the public or private sectors.
Amanda Schalk, PhD is Chief Operations Officer of Enzyme by Design.
Melody Tan, PhD is a Senior Policy Advisor who uses her knowledge of science and engineering to advocate on health, energy, environment, climate, science, space, and technology issues.
Donna Vogel, PhD supported early scholars by managing grants, offering advice, and providing professional skills training.
Shameka Lewis’ work as an EHS Director ensures workplace safety for workers in the manufacturing industry.
Bashayer Khouja’s experience in the food industry has led to her current role as a Research Microbiologist for the FDA.
Kathleen Harsh finds true joy in making products that people can find on grocery store shelves. She helps create healthier baked goods for the public.
With a 20-year career as a mathematics professor, Catherine Roberts, PhD now begins her journey as a CEO of the Consortium for Mathematics and Its Applications.
Jennifer Rasing is a passionate scientist and leader who has spent a career of over 20 years dedicated to the biopharmaceutical industry.
Kathryn Williamson, PhD is a consultant who describes herself as an earth, space, and climate educator.
Charlee Bennett, PhD shares how her work as a Primary Patent Examiner promotes innovation and shapes the development of new technologies that benefit society.
The technological advancements in wearable technology have been made possible without the help of early pioneers like Jocelyn Scheirer.
Elizabeth Hileman, PhD teaches young scientists how to convey their discoveries to both technical and lay audiences through critical written and verbal communication skills.
Meenakshi Bhattacharjee, PhD is an internationally renowned algal biotechnologist with 35+ years of research and development experience.
Yolanda Hagar, PhD is a biostatistician who uses mathematical tools and computational approaches to understand clinical and public health outcomes.
Dr. Gauri Kulkarni is the Lead Scientist in the drug discovery and development program at Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine.
Chantal Navratil is a chemical engineer and founder of Chem Baddie Cosmetics, a business that celebrates the beauty in science while giving back to women in STEM.
After blogging about data visualization, Stephanie Evergreen invented methods for creating graphs that are perfect for certain data stories. Now she is CEO of Evergreen Data.
Dr. Brandy E. Phipps carved her own path as a woman scientist of color with a laser focus on inequities in science education and in the food system.
As a DNA analyst, Holly Porter, PhD applies her science, math, and critical thinking skills to directly impact society by aiding in solving criminal cases of various natures.
Dr. Suzie Stephenson researches Hepatitis delta virus (HDV), which affects millions of people. But she didn’t always imagine herself on this path.
Laiba Bilal is passionate about renewable energy and working at the nanoscale to create groundbreaking technology.
Dr. Smita Darmora utilizes global grids and cloud computing to push the borders of big data analysis.
Emily Royer maintains biodiversity through conservation to help maintain healthy and resilient ecosystems providing humans with numerous benefits.
Dr. Cristina Chuck-Hernández shares how food engineering impacts society — and the status of women in her field.
Dr. Jennifer Pursley ensures that cancer patients receive high-quality radiation treatments while inspiring the next generation of medical physicists.
As a neuroscientist, AWIS member Dr. Lataisia Jones has spent countless years studying cellular division, diabetes, and brain development to understand diseases that affect kids.
Dr. Ronda Hamm educates others on insects and the impact they have on our health and food supply.
Dr. Hongmei Huang pairs science and data analytics to make an impact at Genentech and beyond.
Seeking to make an immediate impact with their STEM training, Drs. Marika Nell and Kevin McDermott pursued science policy.
Dr. Stephanie Watts creates paths for new medicines through her work as a pharmacologist and has overcome many barriers as a woman in science.