FEMALE scientists make up only a third of all researchers, highlighting the underrepresentation of women in the scientific field. To celebrate and support women and girls in science, the UK-based Royal Photographic Society organized the Woman Science Photographer of the Year competition in honor of the UN’s International Day of Women and Girls in Science.
The winner of the adult category was Margaret LeJeune, who received the top prize for her captivating image titled “Watershed Triptych.” The photograph showcases maps of the three largest watersheds in the US, illuminated by bioluminescent marine algae called dinoflagellates. While the glow of these creatures appears mesmerizing, it raises awareness of the toxins they release, which can harm ocean life.
Kelly Zhang won the Young Woman Science Photographer award in the under-18 category for her photo “The Beauty of Soap Bubbles.” The image captures the iridescent surfaces of delicate soap bubbles. Lianna Nixon’s “Leap of Science” was another finalist in the competition and portrays the recent MOSAiC Expedition, which investigates the impact of climate change on the Arctic. The image depicts researchers searching for a suitable spot to measure the reflectivity of sea ice.
The shortlisted photos also include Jindra Jehu’s transformation of a paper and engine oil structure by the growth of pink oyster mushrooms, Lina Yeleuova’s nanosatellite launched for air pollution analysis, and Irina Petrova Adamatzky’s image of a corn snake’s skin under UV light.
These fantastic images from the Female Science Photographer of the Year award showcase the beauty and diversity found in both science and photography, aiming to inspire the next generation to explore and engage with these fields. By providing representation, we hope to encourage more women to pursue careers in science and art.
