Ladies in science are one of the most bada** around, and this one just happens to be Malaysian!
Dr Magaret Sivapragasam has reportedly become the latest Malaysian to rack up an international accolade, after landing an esteemed spot on an international chemist federation’s round-up of esteemed young chemists.
We’re all familiar with the Periodic Table, thanks to our high school chemistry classes, and for its 100th anniversary, the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC) created a Periodic Table of their own, except instead of elements, it contains distinguished chemists around the world!
According to New Straits Times, the Periodic Table of Younger Chemists honours “a diverse group of 118 outstanding younger chemists from around the world who embody the mission and core values of IUPAC”.
Source: Twitter
As you may have guessed, our very own Dr Magaret is among these 118, and to that she said,
“It is really humbling to receive the award and a great honour to be part of the Periodic Table of Younger Chemists. I am thrilled to put Malaysia and UTP (Universiti Teknologi Petronas) on such a distinguished global platform.”
As each of the selected scientists represent a different element, Dr Magaret was chosen for ytterbium (Yb). She was recognised for her research on ionic liquids for H20 pollutant control.
This honour will make a handsome addition to the postdoctoral research scientist’s already glowing list of achievements, which include the Science Finder CAS Future Leader award by the American Chemical Society in 2017, and Stage Two of the Shell Ideas 360 Innovators Challenge.
Source: Bernama
For the latter, Dr Magaret had spearheaded a project which removed dye from industrial wastewater produced by the batik-dyeing industry. She has also represented Malaysia in various international conferences, and frequently campaigned against the stereotyping of women scientists, such as through the Twitter hashtag #scientistscanwearmakeup.
We’re beyond proud of Dr Magaret and will be keeping an eye out for all the great things ahead she is sure to achieve!
Also read: Meet The First Malaysian Scientist to Receive the Women of the Future Award
