NEW YORK, LONDON, BERLIN, TOKYO, Feb. 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Sony Group Corporation (Sony) and Nature are thrilled to announce the first winners of the Sony Women in Technology Award with Nature. This award celebrates exceptional early to mid-career women researchers whose work benefits society and the environment through technology, science, engineering, and math. Each winner receives a prize of $250,000 to further their research.
The award ceremony in Tokyo, Japan recognized three remarkable winners: Dr. Kiana Aran from UC San Diego (USA), Dr. Amanda Randles from Duke University (USA), and Dr. Yating Wan from King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (Saudi Arabia). Additionally, Dr. Jiawen Li from the University of Adelaide, Australia received a Judges’ Commendation.
Mid-Career Winners
Dr. Kiana Aran was honored for her groundbreaking work in bioengineering. She studies fingertip sensors for viral detection, combining artificial intelligence with advanced sensors to detect early signs of cancer and neurological diseases. Aran is well-known for developing a CRISPR-based electronic chip made from graphene, which facilitates the rapid detection of genetic disorders and infections like COVID-19.
Outside her research, Aran actively promotes women’s roles in technology and leadership, contributing to various organizations and creating a non-profit for mentoring women engineers.
Dr. Amanda Randles was recognized for her pioneering work in “digital twin” technology, which uses models to give personalized insights into heart health and treatment strategies.
As a computational scientist at Duke University, Randles and her lab are exploring how to apply this technology to cancer treatments. The judges highlighted her inspiring vision of using digital twins for proactive medical interventions.
Early-Career Winner
Dr. Yating Wan earned this year’s early-career award for her research in Silicon Photonics, focusing on integrating light sources onto silicon chips to enhance data communication efficiency.
Leading the Integrated Photonics Lab in Saudi Arabia, Wan is innovating with ‘quantum dot’ lasers, promoting commercial applications of photonic technology in diverse fields.
Judges’ Commendation Recipient
Dr. Jiawen Li received a special commendation for her work in medical imaging. She is developing a thin endoscope that can help cardiologists assess heart attack risks, a critical step for preventive care.
“We launched this award in March 2024 to support greater diversity in the research community,” says Hiroaki Kitano, CTO of Sony Group Corporation. “Our honorees inspire us with their groundbreaking work, and we look forward to expanding the program.”
Magdalena Skipper, Editor-in-Chief of Nature, remarked:
“Women represent less than a third of the tech workforce. Their creativity and innovation are vital in tackling global challenges. We celebrate the inspiring efforts of Kiana Aran, Amanda Randles, and Yating Wan, who serve as role models for future generations in STEM.”
About Sony Group Corporation
Sony Group Corporation creates leading entertainment experiences built on a strong technological foundation. It spans several sectors, including gaming, music, and imaging solutions. Their mission is to fill the world with emotion through creativity. Visit:
https://www.sony.com/en/
About Nature Portfolio
Nature Portfolio serves the scientific community with a range of high-quality products and journals. Established in 1869, Nature is a leading science journal that publishes significant scientific discoveries.
For more information about Nature Portfolio and its services, visit nature.com.
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