Meet 6 Inspiring Women Pioneering the Future of Science

On this International Women in Science Day, let’s celebrate some amazing women who are making waves in science. While only about 30% of researchers worldwide are women, the number is more promising in the Netherlands. In 2023, 52% of researchers here were women! This progress is especially notable in fields like Technical Sciences and Natural Sciences.

Here are six inspiring women leading the charge in scientific innovation.

1. Regina Luttge: Revolutionizing Brain Disease Research

Regina Luttge is innovating with brain-on-a-chip models. These advanced tools help scientists better understand brain diseases like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s, with the aim of developing effective treatments. Her spin-off company, 2ndB, is dedicated to improving drug success rates through this groundbreaking work.

2. Nienke Bosschaart: A Pain-Free Test for Newborns

Nienke Bosschaart, an expert at the University of Twente, is working on a blood test that could eliminate the need for the painful heel prick often given to newborns. Her method tests blood safely and painlessly, making it especially beneficial for fragile, premature babies.

3. Giulia Bellinetti: Championing Sustainable Materials

Giulia Bellinetti, winner of the 2024 Marc Cornelissen Brightlands Award, runs the Future Materials program. This initiative discovers and uses unexpected materials—like human hair and concrete waste—to create sustainable products. Her work is a significant step towards eco-friendly innovation.

4. Victoria Bruno and Terese Hellström: Using AI to Fight Cancer

Victoria Bruno and Terese Hellström are tackling the challenge of pancreatic cancer, a highly lethal form of cancer. They are developing AI tools to help doctors diagnose the disease earlier and create effective treatment plans, combining their expertise in industrial and electrical engineering.

5. Laura De Laporte: Innovating in Spinal Cord Repair

Laura De Laporte focuses on creating hydrogels aimed at spinal cord repair. An expert in biofabrication, she uses techniques like 3D printing to develop biological tissues, paving the way for advanced medical treatments. She is recognized as one of Europe’s leading figures in her field.

These women exemplify how dedication and innovation can shape the future of science. Their contributions are not only advancing research but also improving lives, proving that women play a crucial role in scientific progress.