Fatshimétrie, the magazine dedicated to science and innovation, today celebrates the extraordinary women who have shaken up the norms and made history with their revolutionary discoveries. For centuries, society has underestimated the abilities of women, relegating them to the role of caretakers of the home, but these five women defied these prejudices to leave an indelible mark on the world of science:
Marie Curie, pioneer of radioactivity
Marie Curie, one of the most famous scientists in history, revolutionized our understanding of radioactivity. Fascinated by mysteriously luminous rocks, she spent years studying them, leading to the discovery of radioactivity. Through his research, X-rays were developed, allowing doctors today to diagnose bone fractures and explore the human body. Curie’s work paved the way for radiation treatments for cancer, earning him two Nobel Prizes.
Rosalind Franklin, revealer of the structure of DNA
Rosalind Franklin, a brilliant scientist, made a major contribution to the understanding of DNA by unveiling its twisted ladder-like structure, known as the double helix. Its detailed images, obtained using X-ray crystallography, allowed James Watson and Francis Crick to propose the model of the double helix of DNA, a pillar of modern genetics. His discovery paved the way for new advances in genetics and medical treatments.
Ada Lovelace, precursor of computer programming
In the 19th century, Ada Lovelace, a renowned mathematician, collaborated with computer pioneer Charles Babbage and wrote the first computer program. She understood that computers could not only perform calculations, but also create music and art. A visionary, Lovelace is today recognized as the world’s first computer programmer, her ideas being ahead of their time.
Jocelyn Bell Burnell, discoverer of pulsars
As a graduate student, Jocelyn Bell Burnell discovered pulsars, stars that emit regular bursts of radio waves. His discovery revolutionized our understanding of the universe, providing new perspectives for testing the laws of physics. Although her male supervisors were awarded a Nobel Prize for this discovery, Bell Burnell is hailed as the true discoverer of pulsars.
Hedy Lamarr, inventor of frequency hopping spread spectrum
Hedy Lamarr, a renowned Hollywood actress, was also a talented inventor. During World War II, she co-invented frequency hopping spread spectrum, a technology intended to make radio signals more difficult for the enemy to jam.. Although not used at the time, this innovation became the basis of many modern wireless communications, such as Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. Lamarr’s invention revolutionized our contemporary modes of communication.
These five exceptional women have transcended the limits imposed by society to leave their mark in the field of science. Their determination, ingenuity and vision have proven that gender is no barrier to success. Their legacy continues to inspire future generations to push the boundaries of knowledge and achieve the impossible.