APS March Meeting 2024
Monday–Friday, March 4–8, 2024;
Minneapolis & Virtual
Session MM01: V: SESAME: a piece of peace for women scientists in the Middle East – smashed stereotypes, changed narratives, and accelerated recognition
5:30 AM–7:30 AM,
Thursday, March 7, 2024
Room: Virtual Room 01
Chair: Gihan Kamel, SESAME
Abstract: MM01.00005 : "From Curiosity to Collaboration: A Young Arab Woman's Expedition in Scientific Exploration."
6:18 AM–6:30 AM
Abstract
Presenter:
Aya A Eli-Sharkawy
(Cairo University)
Author:
Aya A Eli-Sharkawy
(Cairo University)
"Driven by a passion for research and a desire to understand complexities and underlying dynamics, I embarked on a scientific journey in Egypt. This journey served as a testament to the transformative power of women in science. My undergraduate research at the National Cancer Institute ignited my passion for molecular virology, leading me to work on a graduation project focused on finding alternative treatments for the hepatitis C virus using nanotechnology, culminating an accepted abstract and an oral presentation at the esteemed American Society of Virology (ASV) meeting (2018). Transitioning into academia, I was drawn to the opportunity to shape future scientists while delving into cutting-edge research. The gate for an advanced science opportunity at SESAME synchrotron was opened to me in 2021 with a first publication in 2022, followed by participating in the SESAME User Meeting in 2023. With this, the motivation of our research group to showcasing the power of integrative science was confirmed. Nevertheless, navigating the scientific landscape as a woman comes with its challenges, yet I firmly believe in the strength of women supporting women. I have been propelled forward by successful mentorship of acknowledged women scientist along my way, this inspired my Ph.D. application and motivated me to guide other women junior researchers toward opportunities at SESAME the way I had myself. My journey as a woman junior scientist is a testament to the unwavering pursuit of knowledge, the transformative impact of mentorship, and the invaluable contributions of women in science. SESAME stands as a beacon of hope, encouraging women and young researchers to embrace challenges and seize the boundless possibilities ahead. As I gaze into the future, I am acutely aware of the potential of research to improve life quality, firmly believing that diversity and inclusivity are the cornerstones on which science thrives."