The second scientist —The female underdogs

Summary Meritocracy, while appealing, often benefits those with privilege, masking deep inequities in academia.  The underdog term refers to individuals facing systemic challenges, yet still fighting for recognition and success. The contributions to science of Rosalin Franklin, Chien-Shiung Wu and Katherine Johnson were largely overlooked and only acknowledged years later.  Efforts for diversity and inclusion in academia are growing, signaling […]

Katalin Karikó, a teddy bear full of money and a Nobel Prize for a lifetime’s work 

Dr. Katalin Karikó is an inspiring example of resilience and commitment, overcoming multiple challenges and ultimately achieving the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine together with Dr. Drew Weissman in 2023. Her pioneering work in mRNA technology, in collaboration with Dr. Drew Weissman, eventually led to the development of effective mRNA vaccines against COVID-19. Katalin Karikó’s philosophy is focusing on […]