She identified biological mechanisms that enable the development of drought-resistant crops.

On Tuesday, Argentine scientist Raquel Lia Chan was recognized as one of the five winners of the 2026 L’Oreal-UNESCO International Awards for Women in Science, representing Latin America and the Caribbean.

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Chan, a leading figure in agricultural biotechnology, was honored for identifying genes and biological mechanisms that enable the development of drought-resistant crops, applied to wheat, corn, rice, and soybeans.

South African Liesl Zühlke, representing Africa and the Arab States, was recognized for advances in the treatment of childhood heart disease linked to poverty and health inequalities that affect vulnerable communities.

Australian Felice Jacka, representing Asia and the Pacific, received the award for founding nutritional psychiatry and demonstrating the relationship between diet and mental health in diverse populations.

British Sarah A. Teichmann, representing Europe, was recognized for her research in single-cell biology and contributions to precision medicine, which have opened new perspectives on personalized treatments.

American Gordana Vunjak-Novakovic, representing North America, received the award for advances in tissue engineering and the development of biological models applied to regenerative medicine.

UNESCO and the L’Oréal Foundation highlighted the global impact of the five laureates in key areas such as health, biotechnology, tissue engineering, and food security. UNESCO Director-General Khaled Al-Anani stated that science is essential and that half of humanity’s talent cannot be neglected.

L’Oréal Foundation President Jean-Paul Agon celebrated the milestone of supporting 5,000 female researchers and the renewal of the partnership with UNESCO, reaffirming the foundation’s commitment to increasing the visibility of women in science.

teleSUR: JP

Source: EFE

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