STEM Changemaker

Cady Coleman (born December 14, 1960) is an American astronaut, engineer, and one of the first women to work on the development of the Space Shuttle and the International Space Station (ISS). A trained chemist and a veteran of multiple space missions, Coleman was selected as a NASA astronaut in 1992 and completed two spaceflights during her career. In 1999, she flew aboard Space Shuttle Columbia on the STS-93 mission, which deployed the Chandra X-ray Observatory. Her second mission, STS-126, took place in 2008 aboard Space Shuttle Endeavour, where she helped install and maintain various systems on the ISS, further solidifying her reputation as an expert in space operations and technology. As a mission specialist, Coleman was responsible for conducting a wide variety of scientific experiments in space, from biomedicine to materials science, and was known for her ability to work under pressure and her technical expertise in solving complex problems.

Coleman earned her doctorate in chemistry from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and later worked as a senior technical officer for NASA's Glenn Research Center, where she contributed to research and development in aerodynamics, propulsion systems, and materials science. Beyond her technical expertise, she is a strong advocate for STEM education and women in space exploration. Coleman has used her platform to inspire young people, especially girls, to pursue careers in science and engineering. Her work on the development of space systems, particularly the ISS, played a vital role in making the ISS the operational and research powerhouse it is today. After retiring from NASA in 2016, she continued to contribute to science and education, demonstrating how space exploration not only advances human knowledge but also inspires new generations of explorers.

Flossie Wong-Staal (August 27, 1946 – July 8, 2020) was a pioneering virologist and molecular biologist best known for her groundbreaking research on HIV, the virus that causes AIDS. Wong-Staal made history in the early 1980s when, as a scientist at the University of California, San Francisco, she became the first person to clone and map the HIV genome, a monumental achievement in the fight against AIDS. Her research provided critical insights into the virus's structure and function, which laid the groundwork for the development of diagnostic tests and antiretroviral therapies. Wong-Staal’s work was instrumental in understanding how HIV attacks the immune system and in developing strategies to combat the disease. She was also part of the team that helped demonstrate the presence of HIV in the blood of AIDS patients, providing clear evidence that the virus was the cause of the disease.

Wong-Staal earned her Ph.D. in molecular biology from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), and later worked at the University of California, San Diego, where she continued her pioneering research on HIV and other retroviruses. Throughout her career, she held significant positions in both academia and industry, including as the chief scientific officer at the biotech company Immusol, where she worked on developing gene therapies. Her research has been credited with shaping the modern understanding of virology and AIDS. Flossie Wong-Staal's legacy is a testament to the power of scientific discovery and the critical importance of medical research in addressing global health challenges. Her work in molecular biology has not only changed the course of AIDS research but has also had lasting impacts on the broader field of virology.

Hertha Ayrton (April 28, 1854 – August 23, 1923) was a British engineer, mathematician, and pioneering physicist best known for her work in electrical engineering and the study of arc lamps and the dynamics of fluids. Ayrton became the first woman to be elected as a full member of the Institution of Electrical Engineers (now the IET) in 1899, breaking significant gender barriers in the male-dominated field of engineering. She studied at the University of London and later became a lecturer and researcher at the same institution. Ayrton’s research on the electric arc was influential in improving the efficiency of street lighting and electrical devices in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Her work helped refine the understanding of how electric arcs work, and her research into the mathematical principles behind electrical discharges was groundbreaking at the time.

Ayrton’s achievements were significant not only in her field but also in terms of advancing women’s participation in the sciences. In addition to her engineering work, she was an advocate for women in science and engineering, and she contributed to public understanding of scientific issues through her writings and lectures. Her involvement in various scientific societies, including the Royal Society of London, and her subsequent election as the first woman member of the Institution of Electrical Engineers, were major milestones for women in STEM. Ayrton's work on electrical engineering, especially her innovations related to electric arcs, had a lasting impact on both practical applications and the advancement of scientific knowledge.

Kalpana Chawla (March 17, 1962 – February 1, 2003) was an Indian-American astronaut and aerospace engineer who made history as the first woman of Indian origin to go to space. Chawla earned her bachelor’s degree in aeronautical engineering from Punjab Engineering College in India before moving to the United States to pursue graduate studies. She obtained a master's degree in aerospace engineering from the University of Texas at Arlington, followed by a Ph.D. in aerospace engineering from the University of Colorado. After joining NASA, Chawla was selected as an astronaut candidate in 1994, and in 1997, she became the first woman of Indian origin to fly in space. Her first mission, STS-87, aboard the Space Shuttle Columbia, took place in 1997, where she conducted experiments in space and helped deploy a satellite. Chawla’s second mission, STS-107, ended tragically when the Space Shuttle Columbia disintegrated upon re-entry into Earth's atmosphere in 2003, leading to the loss of all seven crew members.

Chawla's contributions to space exploration and engineering were profound, and her legacy continues to inspire aspiring astronauts, engineers, and scientists around the world. She was known for her determination, intelligence, and dedication to the exploration of space. Chawla’s story resonates deeply within both the Indian and global communities, particularly as a symbol of perseverance and the breaking of barriers in science and technology. After her death, numerous memorials and tributes have been established in her honor, including schools, awards, and even the Kalpana Chawla Award for Excellence in Aerospace Engineering. Chawla’s journey exemplifies the transformative power of education, determination, and a relentless passion for exploration, and her legacy endures in the hearts of many in the field of space science.

Eileen Collins (born November 19, 1956) is an American astronaut and engineer. She made history as the first woman to pilot the Space Shuttle and later became the first woman to command a Space Shuttle mission. Collins, a U.S. Air Force officer and trained pilot, joined NASA in 1990 and quickly rose through the ranks due to her exceptional skills, leadership abilities, and extensive flight training. After completing her initial training as a mission specialist, she became the pilot for Space Shuttle Discovery on the STS-63 mission in 1995, marking the first time a woman piloted the Shuttle. Her achievement was a significant milestone in space exploration, as it broke gender barriers in a field traditionally dominated by men. Collins went on to command the STS-93 mission in 1999, making her the first female Space Shuttle commander. She later commanded the STS-114 mission in 2005, which was the first Shuttle flight following the Columbia disaster in 2003.

Collins’ career in the Air Force and NASA reflects her exceptional technical abilities and leadership. She earned a bachelor’s degree in economics from Syracuse University, followed by a master’s degree in space systems management from the University of California, Berkeley. Throughout her career, Collins has been a powerful advocate for women in aviation and space exploration. Her legacy as a trailblazer in aerospace engineering continues to inspire the next generation to pursue careers in space science and engineering. After retiring from NASA in 2006, she continued her work as a public speaker, promoting STEM education and encouraging young women to enter science and engineering fields.

Nancy Wexler (born November 19, 1945) is an American geneticist renowned for her groundbreaking work on Huntington's disease, a neurodegenerative disorder that is passed down genetically. She is best known for leading a large-scale, multi-decade study in Venezuela, where she worked with families afflicted by the disease to track its inheritance and understand its genetic basis. This pioneering research led to the identification of the gene responsible for Huntington’s disease in the mid-1990s, marking a significant breakthrough in genetics and medicine. Wexler earned her Ph.D. in clinical psychology from Columbia University, where she combined her background in psychology with genetics to study the psychological and genetic factors of neurodegenerative diseases. Her work not only contributed to the identification of the genetic mutation that causes Huntington's but also laid the foundation for genetic testing and counseling, giving families more information about their risks and options for the future.

Beyond her research, Wexler has been a passionate advocate for the families affected by Huntington's disease and for advancing scientific research in neurogenetics. She served as the president of the Hereditary Disease Foundation, which funds research on Huntington's disease, and has worked tirelessly to improve both scientific understanding and patient care. Wexler’s dedication to her research and her commitment to improving the lives of those affected by the disease have made her a respected figure in genetics and medical research. In recognition of her contributions, she has received numerous awards, including the MacArthur Fellowship, often referred to as the "genius grant." Her work continues to inspire geneticists and medical researchers around the world, demonstrating the power of science to bring hope to individuals and families affected by genetic disorders.

Ruzwana Bashir (born 1985) is a British computer scientist and entrepreneur who is known for co-founding Peek. Peek is a platform designed to help travelers discover and book activities and experiences. Bashir grew up in the UK and pursued her studies in computer science at the University of Oxford, where she gained a strong foundation in the technical and business aspects of technology. After her education, Bashir worked at major tech companies, including Google, where she gained valuable experience before venturing into entrepreneurship. In 2011, she co-founded Peek. Under her leadership, Peek quickly grew and became a popular platform for travelers seeking personalized itineraries and off-the-beaten-path adventures.

As a female entrepreneur in the tech and travel sectors, Bashir has faced unique challenges but has successfully built a company that has received recognition for its innovation and impact on the travel industry. Peek has been praised for its user-friendly interface and for helping travelers connect with local guides and experiences. Bashir’s success as a tech entrepreneur has made her a role model for women in tech and has contributed to ongoing discussions about increasing diversity in the startup ecosystem. She is also a vocal advocate for greater representation of women in technology, mentoring other women and encouraging them to pursue careers in the industry. Through her work with Peek, Bashir has not only revolutionized the travel industry but has also demonstrated the power of entrepreneurship to drive meaningful change.

Kimberly Bryant (born January 14,1967) is an American electrical engineer and the founder of Black Girls Code, an organization aimed at empowering young women of color by providing them with the skills to pursue careers in technology. Bryant earned her degree in electrical engineering from Vanderbilt University, where she faced numerous challenges as one of the few women of color in her program. After working in various roles in the tech industry, including at companies like Intel, she recognized the lack of representation of Black women in STEM fields and became determined to change that. In 2011, Bryant founded Black Girls Code to inspire and equip young Black girls with the tools to enter the tech world, offering programs that teach coding, robotics, and other vital STEM skills.

Bryant's dedication to promoting diversity in technology has earned her recognition and numerous accolades. Black Girls Code has become a powerful force in the tech community, reaching thousands of young women of color across the United States. The organization’s work helps break down barriers to entry in the tech industry and fosters a new generation of leaders in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Bryant’s advocacy for diversity and her vision for a more inclusive tech industry have positioned her as a leader in the movement to make STEM fields more accessible to marginalized communities. Her contributions have not only impacted the lives of young women but also contributed to broader societal changes in the tech landscape.

Carol Shaw (born August 27, 1955) is an American video game designer and programmer who is widely regarded as one of the first women to have a significant role in the video game industry. She is best known for creating River Raid, which became the first commercially successful video game designed by a woman. Shaw was a trailblazer in a predominantly male-dominated industry, having worked as a video game designer at Activision in the 1980s. She studied computer science at the University of California, Berkeley, and went on to work at Atari before joining Activision, where she developed several early titles for the Atari 2600 console. River Raid, released in 1982, was an innovative and influential game that combined fast-paced action with strategic gameplay, and it became one of the top-selling games of the era.

Shaw’s contributions to the early video game industry were groundbreaking, and she played a key role in the development of video games that would become the foundation of modern gaming. After her time at Activision, Shaw worked on various other projects in the tech industry, though she eventually transitioned away from video game design to pursue a career in software development.

Jocelyn Bell Burnell (born July 15, 1943) is a British astrophysicist best known for her discovery of the first pulsar in 1967. While a graduate student at the University of Cambridge, Bell Burnell made this groundbreaking observation while working with her advisor, Antony Hewish, on a radio astronomy project. The discovery of the pulsar—a rapidly rotating neutron star emitting regular radio waves—was a pivotal moment in astrophysics. This observation led to a Nobel Prize in Physics in 1974, though, controversially, it was awarded only to her male supervisor, Hewish, and Martin Ryle, while Bell Burnell was excluded. Despite this, Bell Burnell’s discovery transformed our understanding of the universe and helped establish the study of neutron stars and the broader field of radio astronomy. She earned her degree in physics from the University of Glasgow and later completed her Ph.D. at Cambridge, where she conducted her pioneering research.

Throughout her career, Jocelyn Bell Burnell has remained an advocate for women in science and continues to break barriers in the field of astrophysics. In addition to her research, she has held significant academic and administrative positions, including a professorship at the University of Edinburgh. Bell Burnell has also served as the president of the Royal Astronomical Society and has been a major voice in the promotion of diversity and inclusion in the sciences. Her discovery has led to many more important findings in astrophysics, and she remains a trailblazer for future generations of scientists. Bell Burnell has received numerous honors, including the Special Breakthrough Prize in Fundamental Physics in 2018, recognizing her role in one of the most important astrophysical discoveries of the 20th century.

Betsy Ancker-Johnson (January 17, 1930 - September 10, 2018) was an American physicist and engineer, widely recognized as the first woman to earn a PhD in physics from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). Born in New York City, Ancker-Johnson demonstrated an early aptitude for science and mathematics. Her academic journey began with a Bachelor of Science in Physics from Bryn Mawr College in 1951, where she was one of only a few women pursuing such a field at the time. She then continued her studies at MIT, earning her Master of Science in Physics in 1953. Ancker-Johnson made history in 1956 when she became the first woman to earn a PhD in physics from MIT, a groundbreaking accomplishment that not only set her apart as an individual but also opened doors for women in a male-dominated field.

Throughout her career, Ancker-Johnson made important contributions to the fields of physics and engineering. After earning her PhD, she worked in both academia and industry, where her research focused on nuclear physics and engineering applications. She held various prestigious roles, including professorships and leadership positions in scientific organizations, where she applied her expertise to projects related to technology and innovation. Ancker-Johnson was also deeply committed to mentoring and advocating for women in science, encouraging them to pursue careers in the sciences. Later in her career, she became an influential voice in applied physics, particularly in areas like instrumentation and technology development.

Lisa Randall (born June 18, 1962) is an American theoretical physicist who has made groundbreaking contributions to the fields of particle physics and cosmology. Randall is best known for her work on the theory of extra dimensions, which is a key component of string theory and attempts to explain the fundamental structure of the universe. She introduced the idea of "large extra dimensions," which could explain why gravity is so much weaker than other fundamental forces.

Randall studied at Harvard University, earning a Ph.D. in physics in 1987. She went on to hold prestigious positions, including a professorship at Harvard, and was the first tenured woman in the university's physics department. Randall’s research explores the intersection of particle physics and cosmology, and she has made significant contributions to understanding dark matter, black holes, and the nature of the universe at the smallest scales.

Beyond her research, Lisa Randall has been an advocate for science communication and public engagement. She has written several popular science books, such as Warped Passages, which explains her work on higher dimensions and the universe’s structure in a manner accessible to the general public. Randall’s work continues to shape theoretical physics, particularly in the areas of particle physics and cosmology. She has received numerous awards and honors throughout her career, including being listed as one of Time Magazine's 100 most influential people in 2007.