It is time to pay tribute to women in science: the women who won the Nobel prizes in Chemistry and Physiology or Medicine

Abstract

In the 21st century, it is time to recognize the essential role of women in science. The study carried out by women-scientists makes it possible to combine brightness of mind, deep knowledge with humaneness and wisdom. Their approaches to the problems and the ways to solve them are largely determined by their maps of meaning and existential experience that can enrich and expand the scientific field and, as a result, can offer unexpected but most effective ways to solve the problem. However, women face obstacles in advancing their careers in science, and the situation is even more discouraging when it comes to winning science awards, the most prestigious of which is the Nobel Prize. Between 1901 and 2023, the Nobel Prizes were awarded 621 times to 965 individuals and 27 organizations, but only 64 of them were women-scientists. While we recognize and praise all women – Nobel laureates, this paper pays special attention to women who have received Nobel Prizes in Chemistry and Physiology or Medicine and briefly outlines their scientific achievements. A more detailed description of their life and scientific journey will be provided in subsequent articles. Keywords: the Nobel Prize in Chemistry and in Physiology or Medicine, women – Nobel Prize winners, women-scientists