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Fondation L’Oréal Honours and Supports Three Promising Women Scientists in Singapore
Dr. Iris Yu, Dr. Grace Lim, Dr. Tianshu Xiao, and Tomas Hruska, Managing Director of L’Oréal Singapore and Malaysia
Singapore, 28 November 2024– L’Oréal Fondation continues to reaffirm its commitment in empowering women scientists in Singapore through the L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science 2024. This year, three promising women researchers in the areas of contamination and waste management, biophysics, and biological sciences were awarded S$10,000 endowment each to advance their research.
Over 25 years, the L'Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science programme has supported more than 4,400 women scientists across 110 countries, offering invaluable recognition, resources, and opportunities to advance their careers. This year’s awardees in Singapore highlight the critical role of women scientists in driving impactful research and address significant global challenges, from sustainable bioeconomy solutions to pioneering medical research.
The 2024 Singapore beneficiaries include:
- Dr. Iris Yu, Assistant Professor at National University of Singapore - Dr. Yu’s research centres on transforming organic waste into carbon-neutral value-added products through thermochemical processing, addressing biomass and food waste and supporting a circular bioeconomy. By developing sustainable upcycling solutions, Dr. Yu’s work has the potential to revolutionise waste management and contribute to resilient bioresource circularity for Singapore and beyond.
- Dr. Tianshu Xiao, Assistant Professor at Nanyang Technological University- Specialising in structural-based and artificial intelligence facilitated drug development, Dr. Xiao has pioneered antiviral inhibitors aimed at combating infectious diseases. Her groundbreaking research could make antiviral treatments more effective and accessible, particularly in underserved regions, demonstrating the power of science to address global health challenges and mitigate future pandemics.
- Dr. Grace Lim, Senior Scientist, , Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR)- Dr. Lim’s research focuses on cancer stem cells that contribute to aggressive and untreatable forms of gastric cancer. Her work aims to fill a critical gap in cancer treatment, specifically targeting metastatic stages with limited patient options. Dr. Lim’s efforts hold promise for developing therapies that could radically change gastric cancer treatment, offering hope to patients worldwide.
Tomas Hruska, Managing Director for L’Oréal in Singapore said, “The L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science Awards helps in closing the gender gap in STEM, so that we can shape a more inclusive and equitable future for science. Women bring unique perspectives and innovative solutions to the world’s biggest challenges, yet they remain underrepresented in the field. Since 2009, L’Oréal has supported 30 women scientists in Singapore with over S$300,000 worth of endowment. We at L’Oréal are committed in empowering women to lead, innovate, and inspire the next generation, because the world needs science and science needs women.”
The programme was also enriched through a partnership with A*STAR. This collaboration significantly expanded the programme’s reach, as A*STAR engaged leading universities and research agencies to attract a strong pool of exceptional submissions. Professor Andy Hor, Deputy Chief Executive (Research) at A*STAR also served as the Head of Jury and was integral to the selection process, overseeing every stage—from appointing expert jurors in relevant research fields to evaluating submissions, conducting candidate interviews, and leading the final deliberation meeting.
Reflecting on the partnership, Professor Andy Hor of A*STAR said, “The L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science programme highlights the critical importance of diversity in STEM by recognising the achievements of women researchers. By celebrating their contributions, we can inspire the next generation to pursue careers in science and technology, fostering a vibrant and inclusive research ecosystem that addresses global challenges. These awards not only recognise the excellent and impactful science conducted by these women, but also celebrate their ambition and aspirations to push the frontiers of research.”
The L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science programme, recognised worldwide, continues to promote gender equality in STEM by championing the work of women researchers and supporting over 250 female scientists each year through 52 regional and national initiatives. The rigorous selection process ensures that only the most exceptional scientists are awarded, underscoring the programme’s mission to close gender gaps in STEM fields and encourage women to advance science.
An award ceremony was held today to celebrate the three beneficiaries whilst providing them with a platform to share their journeys, challenges, and hopes for the future. Their achievements underscore the importance of female representation in scientific research and highlight women's powerful contributions to solving global issues. For more information, please visit- https://www.forwomeninscience.com/
SOURCE: L'Oreal
