Welcome to GWIS Empower! GWIS Empower aims to offer career and leadership advice for women in science, along with member-generated content. This issue highlights the science behind fireworks and an interview from Nobel Price co-recipient, Carolyn Bertozzi. You can also look forward to a podcast conversation with Dr. Cruz about her work in medical innovations, a DEI article on the impact of secrecy in harrassment cases, and scholarship opportunities from Gen and Kelly Tanabe and GeneTex.
Burning questions about fireworks, answered by Dr. Kate Biberdorf
Photo by Crysta Henthorne/ KCUR 89.3
Dr. Kate Biberdorf is a chemist by training and a professor at The University of Texas with a flair for a little drame. Thus, Dr. Biberdorf is breaking down the image of the stereotypical scientist by approaching teaching with theatrical and hands-on activities to reach students who might otherwise be intimidated by science. She goes beyond the academic classroom though; as a science entertainer and communicator, Dr. Biberdorf is hosting the "Seeking a Scientist" podcast to explain scientific phenomena to the general public and has written the fiction series "Kate the Chemist" to make science accessible to kids. Fitting the theme of 4th of July, Dr. Kate Biberdorf is answering some burning questions about fireworks in her latest podcast. Listen via the link below
Chemist Carolyn Bertozzi is the co-recipient of the 2022 Nobel Prize in Chemistry for founding the field of bioorthogonal chemistry, a term she coined, and for her role in the development of click chemistry. The openly gay scientist is the Anne T. and Robert M. Bass Professor of Chemistry and Professor of Chemical & Systems Biology and Radiology (by courtesy) at Stanford University, the Baker Family Director at Sarafan ChEM-H, and an Investigator of the Howard Hughes Medical Institute. Bertozzi was also honored by the Institute with the 2023 Ullyot Public Affairs Lecture & Award.
With over 15 years of experience, Dr. Cruz has been at the forefront of regulatory strategy and commercialization for the development of small molecules and biologics across a wide range of therapeutic areas. Her expertise include regulatory submissions and the development of applications in the US and Europe, ensuring that crucial medical innovations reach those in need. Currently at Biogen, Dr. Cruz's impressive career also includes roles as an Associate Director of Regulatory Affairs at Dunn Regulatory Associates and Senior Regulatory Scientist at Cote Orpha, LLC. At the University of Maryland, Baltimore (UMB), she played a pivotal role in bridging the gap between academic research and the pharma/biotech industry.
Listen to the GWIS podcast where Dr. Cruz shares her journey, insights into the regulatory landscape, and her passion for neuroscience. Her story is a testament to resilience and the importance of adapting and forging your own path.
How restorative justice could help to heal science communities torn apart by harassment misconduct
Harassment in STEM fields can have long standing impacts. Earlier this year, Nature published an article "Shrouded in secrecy: how science is harmed by the bullying and harassment rumour mill," discussing the problems that arise from a lack of transparency in harassment cases. In a follow up article, Nature is now focusing on solutions, including how restorative justice could help to heal science communities torn apart by harassment misconduct.
Want to connect on-line with other women scientists? Join the GWIS Slack channel. GWIS also has a private LinkedIn group for connecting with nearly 2,000 women scientists to share interesting news, job opportunities, and more! Want to form a small group? Contact the GWIS Media group to access our private forums and help you solicit fellow GWIS participants!
Scholarship Opportunity
The Gen and Kelly Tanabe Scholarship
This merit-based scholarship aims to help students fulfill their dreams of higher education. Applicants have to be a legal resident of the U.S., but the eligibility ranges from high school, over undergraduate and graduate students. To win the $1,000 that could be used for any educational expenses, applicants must submit a short essay until July 31, 2024.
The GeneTex scholarship is open to all STEM majors enrolled at an accredited postsecondary institution in good academic standing, including international students. This scholarship aims to support young scientists who will increase scientific advancement and future discoveries through their STEM degree. The GeneTex scholarship awards one student $2,000 biannually for use toward their education or other expenses. Apply by July 12, 2024 to receive support towards your tuition and other expenses.
Founded in 1921, Graduate Women in Science is an inter-disciplinary society of scientists who collectively seek to advance the participation and recognition of women in science and to foster research through grants, awards and fellowships. We comprise over 20 active chapters of more than 800 women who are "United in Friendship through Science" to support and inspire member professional goals and mutual appreciation of science. Learn more at www.gwis.org.
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