Celebrating Women in STEM: Pioneers Across the Region

By Buthayna El Haggar On Mar 8, 2025

As International Women’s Day approaches on March 8, 2025, it’s essential to recognize and celebrate the remarkable contributions of Arab women in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM).

These pioneering individuals have not only advanced their respective fields but have also become beacons of inspiration for future generations.

Here are five exceptional women whose work deserves to be celebrated.

Dr. Hayat Sindi – Biotechnologist & UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador

Saudi Arabia

According to Educatly, Dr. Hayat Sindi is a leading biotechnologist and a UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador for science education. Born in Mecca, Saudi Arabia, Dr. Sindi’s journey in science began with her fascination for medical diagnostics.

She earned her Ph.D. in biotechnology from the University of Cambridge, becoming one of the first Saudi women to achieve this milestone.

Dr. Sindi is best known for her pioneering work in inventing low-cost, portable diagnostic devices, such as the Magnetic Acoustic Resonance Sensor (MARS) and Diagnostics for All.

Jordan

Dr. Rana Dajani is a molecular biologist and a tenured professor at Hashemite University in Jordan. She is recognized for her groundbreaking research on the impact of trauma on epigenetics, among others, particularly her work with Syrian refugees.

Dr. Dajani’s efforts have reshaped how research partnerships are approached, emphasizing trust, equity, and respect among all stakeholders.

In addition to her academic work, she is a social entrepreneur and the founder of the “We Love Reading” initiative, which promotes a love of reading among children in the Arab world. Dr. Dajani’s contributions to science and education have earned her numerous accolades, including being named a 2025 TWAS Fellow.

Dr. Lamya Al Haj – Renewable Energy Innovator & Sustainability Champion

Oman

Dr. Lamya Al Haj is an assistant professor of molecular biology at Sultan Qaboos University in Oman. Her research focuses on renewable energy and sustainability, with a particular emphasis on biofuel production from waste materials.

Dr. Al Haj’s work has the potential to revolutionize the energy sector in Oman and beyond. She has been recognized for her contributions to science with several awards, including the L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science Middle East fellowship.

Dr. Al Haj is also a member of the World Academy of Science and has been named a Young Global Leader by the World Economic Forum.

Taiba Alamoudi – Marine Scientist & Emerging Leader

Saudi Arabia

Taiba Alamoudi is a marine scientist and Ph.D. candidate at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST). Her research in marine science has been recognized by the L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science Program, where she was honored as a Middle East Regional Young Talent in 2024.

Alamoudi’s work focuses on understanding and preserving marine ecosystems, which is crucial for environmental sustainability.

Israa Al Hussain Al Hassan Othman – Nanomaterials & Photocatalysis Researcher

Sudan

Israa Al Hussain Al Hassan Othman is a Ph.D. candidate at Khalifa University, specializing in nanomaterials and photocatalysis.

Her research on the development of quantum dots and their nanocomposites for photocatalytic applications has significant implications for clean energy and climate change mitigation.

Othman’s contributions to health, clean energy, and climate change were honored by the L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science Program in 2024.

Celebrating Women’s Success in STEM

These women’s contributions to their respective fields, among many others, have inspired positive change within their communities. Their work in medical diagnostics, renewable energy, marine science, and education has had a profound impact on addressing critical challenges and promoting sustainable development.

As we celebrate International Women’s Day, let us honor these remarkable women and their achievements.

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