Meet The Six Arab Women In Science Honored By L’Oréal-UNESCO

Six Arab female scientists were celebrated for their outstanding work at the 11th edition of the L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science Middle East Regional Young Talents program, which was held in partnership with the UAE’s Khalifa University of Science and Technology in October 2024. Recognized for their groundbreaking research in fields ranging from neuroscience to transcriptomics, these pioneers have been awarded grants to advance their innovative contributions to the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). With the L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science Middle East Regional Young Talents program focusing on academic excellence, innovative research, and ethical practices, the winners were evaluated and selected based on their achievements, research quality, and potential impact, as well as their ability to inspire other young Arab female scientists.

As part of a global initiative that has supported over 4,100 researchers and 127 laureates from more than 110 countries since 1998, the Middle East edition of the program this year shows that the field requires the contributions of Arab women more than ever before.

Here’s an overview of the impactful work these six women are pursuing, as well as their reflections on receiving such a prestigious award.

Fatima Alshamsi 

Fatima Alshamsi is an Emirati PhD candidate at Khalifa University, specializing in transcriptomics, the study of gene activity, which includes how genes are regulated, and how they respond to various conditions or diseases. Through her work, Alshamsi identifies genes linked to endothelial cell dysfunction so as to develop therapeutic targets for managing complications like retinopathy and cardiovascular diseases.

Fatima Alshamsi. Courtesy of Fatima Alshamsi.

Speaking with Inc. Arabia, Alshamsi says that winning the L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science award has felt like a transformative experience. “Professionally, it has opened new doors for collaboration and given greater visibility to my research,” she reveals. “It provides me with a platform to engage with a global network of scientists and share my work, which could lead to exciting new opportunities. On a personal level, the award has boosted my confidence, and it has reaffirmed my belief in the importance of my research. It has also motivated me to mentor and support other young women in science, as I now feel even more empowered to inspire the next generation.”

Although Alshamsi works in the UAE, which is known to be a place that offers strong support for women in STEM, she admits to still having encountered – in the early stages of her career trajectory – a scarcity of female representation in the domain, particularly in fields like genetics and biomedical research. “It was difficult not having many role models to look up to when I was considering my future in science,” she recalls. “Over time, I overcame these challenges by seeking out mentorship and drawing inspiration from pioneering Emirati women like Professor Habiba Al Safar. I also leaned on the incredible support provided by institutions like Khalifa University, which is dedicated to nurturing young scientists through mentorship and career guidance.

Dr. Hiam Souheil Chemaitelly 

Dr. Hiam Souheil Chemaitelly. Courtesy of Dr. Hiam Souheil Chemaitelly.

Dr. Hiam Souheil Chemaitelly is an assistant professor of research in population health sciences at Weill Cornell Medicine in Qatar, where she specializes in infectious diseases. The Lebanese scientist’s research explores the “epidemiology of respiratory infections,” and it also evaluates the effectiveness of various interventions. Her work has shaped clinical practices, reduced the societal burden of infectious diseases, and highlighted the crucial role of vaccination in protecting pregnant women and other vulnerable populations.

For Chemaitelly, winning the L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science award is an honor that she believes will have a profound and lasting influence on both her career and personal development. “Professionally, this recognition opens new avenues for collaboration, funding, and partnerships, which are crucial for conducting impactful research,” she says. “Personally, this award affirms the value of perseverance, and it motivates me to set even higher goals. It also inspires me to serve as a mentor for other women in STEM, showing that meaningful contributions are within reach.”

Looking back on her career trajectory, Chemaitelly says that one of the hurdles she faced was navigating the challenges of being a woman in a predominantly male field. Reflecting on that, Chemaitelly says, “One of the main challenges has been the limited access to quality higher education opportunities within the region, along with the added responsibilities of social expectations and family commitments.” But while the odds may have been against her, Chemaitelly has managed to come out on top nonetheless. “Fortunately, I had the unique opportunity to pursue my PhD while remaining based in the MENA region, allowing me to establish my academic career here,” she says.

In terms of advice for her peers, Chemaitelly emphasizes the importance of maintaining a healthy work-life balance, and she also highlights the crucial role of having a strong support system. “Balancing the demands of a STEM career with personal responsibilities has not been easy, especially with the rigorous hours and constant need for learning,” she shares. “Yet, strong family support has been invaluable, enabling me to focus on my professional development, and make meaningful contributions to my field.”

Israa Al Hussain Al Hassan Othman

Israa Al Hussain Al Hassan Othman. Courtesy of Israa Al Hussain Al Hassan Othman.

Israa Al Hussain Al Hassan Othman is a Sudanese PhD candidate researching nanomaterials and photocatalysis, with a focus on quantum dots, at Khalifa University. Quantum dots, renowned for their unique optical and electrical characteristics, are at the heart of Othman’s work. By fine-tuning their size, shape, and surface features, she aims to enhance the efficiency of carbon dioxide (CO2) conversion, contributing to global initiatives to lower atmospheric CO2 levels and address climate change.

As one of the winners of the L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science award this year, Othman says that the achievement has opened new doors for collaboration, funding, and access to valuable resources. “Personally, it strengthens my confidence, and it reinforces my commitment to inspiring other women in STEM,” she adds. “This recognition motivates me to push the boundaries of my research, while serving as a role model for the next generation of women scientists.”

Commenting on her experiences as a woman working in a technical domain, Othman suggests that gender biases and being one of the few women in such spaces are not issues unique to the MENA region, but rather global ones. “I’ve faced assumptions about my capabilities or ambitions, which can be discouraging,” she says. “However, I’ve found strength in persistence, and in surrounding myself with supportive mentors and colleagues who value diversity and inclusion.”

Dr. Leena Ali Ibrahim

Dr. Leena Ali Ibrahim. Courtesy of Dr. Leena Ali Ibrahim.

Dr. Leena Ali Ibrahim, a Palestinian-Bulgarian assistant professor of bioscience at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) in Saudi Arabia, is at the forefront of groundbreaking research in neuroscience. Her research explores how certain brain cells and genes are linked to hypersensitivity in autism, and by using advanced techniques such as two-photon calcium imaging, Ibrahim’s work investigates how sensory experiences and genetics shape brain function.

Reflecting on being selected as one of the recipients of the L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science awards this year, Ibrahim expresses her gratitude for the recognition of her work and its potential impact on the field. “This recognition not only elevates the visibility of the critical questions my lab is addressing, but also strengthens my ability to support emerging scientists,” she says. “I am particularly hopeful that this award will open doors to additional resources for our research, and inspire young women to pursue careers in neuroscience.”

While Ibrahim acknowledges the invaluable support she has received along her career trajectory, she also highlights the hurdles she has faced throughout her journey. “At times, I was not taken seriously, or was doubted, which only fueled my determination to work harder, and prove my resilience,” she says. However, Ibrahim’s commitment remained intact. “Despite these challenges, I remain committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for women in my lab.”

Taiba Alamoudi

Taiba Alamoudi. Courtesy of Taiba Alamoudi.

Taiba Alamoudi is a Saudi Arabian PhD candidate at KAUST specializing in marine science, with her research exploring how climate change is affecting marine ecosystems. Her work examines how marine life responds to global warming and ocean deoxygenation, and it aims to develop sustainable solutions that benefit both ecosystems and human communities. With a background in marine biology and ecology, her work integrates research, policy advocacy, and technology to drive climate action.

For Alamoudi, winning the L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science award has been a pivotal moment for her. “Professionally, it brings my research to a larger stage, providing me with opportunities to connect with other scientists and potential collaborators who can help expand the impact,” she says. “Personally, it’s a confidence boost, and a reminder that the hard work is worth it. It motivates me to keep aiming high and hopefully shows other women that these goals are achievable.”

As a woman in the MENA’s STEM domain, Alamoudi admits to having faced challenges shaped by the region. “Cultural norms make family responsibilities feel like obligations, which can limit career growth and access to opportunities,” she says. “Every-day struggles, like balancing lab hours, fieldwork, or travel with family expectations, are real obstacles here.” Here, Alamoudi underlines the importance of resilience, self-advocacy, and creating a personal support network in overcoming these hurdles. “Thankfully, my small family is supportive, and the forward-thinking leadership in Saudi Arabia has made a big difference,” she points out.

Additionally, Alamoudi highlights the government-run programs and scholarships that have provided the backing needed for women in science to succeed. “This strong backing from the top for women’s engagement and protection has eased many pressures, making it possible for women like me to advance and succeed,” Alamoudi shares.

Dr. Entesar Al-Hetlani

Dr. Entesar Al-Hetlani. Courtesy of Dr. Entesar Al-Hetlani.

Dr. Entesar Al-Hetlani is a professor at Kuwait University who specializes in analytical chemistry with a focus on forensic science. After being inspired to enter the field during her undergraduate studies, the Kuwaiti researcher has spent over eight years developing innovative techniques to analyze trace evidence, such as drugs and bodily fluids, that help enhance the accuracy of criminal investigations. Al-Hetlani’s research, which explores how light interacts with materials to reveal key molecular information, plays a crucial role in solving crimes, especially those affecting women, like domestic violence and sexual assault.

For Al-Hetlani, receiving the L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science award is a significant professional milestone. “Being selected from among many outstanding applicants has significantly boosted my confidence and energized me to advance my work,” she says. “This recognition validates the years of hard work and dedication me and my team have devoted to my research, helping to establish my place within the scientific community. It can open doors to new opportunities, collaborations, and partnerships that I eagerly anticipate.”

Al-Hetlani also reveals that this recognition has come at a time when she was feeling burned out, and it thus offers a significant boost to her confidence and self-esteem. “Research certainly comes with its own set of difficulties; the peer-review process and securing funding can be quite challenging,” she shares. “However, the motivation to continue my research and rekindle my passion for it is what keeps me going. In this sense, this award serves not only as validation of my efforts but also as a wakeup call to continue doing impactful research.”

In her time working at Kuwait University, Al-Hetlani says that she has been fortunate not to encounter significant gender-related obstacles. “The work environment is supportive for both genders, and we have equal opportunities regarding teaching, administrative responsibilities, and research,” she says. However, Al-Hetlani recognizes that, despite this supportive setting, societal stereotypes about women’s roles in STEM remain prevalent in the broader MENA region, illustrating that challenges persist outside of academic institutions. “For instance, women may be perceived as less capable or suited for STEM due to the prevailing misinformation that suggests men are more competent in these fields,” she points out.

To address these challenges, Al-Hetlani tells Inc. Arabia that it’s essential for institutions to promote awareness, provide mentorship, and encourage female participation in STEM, as well as to challenge and change societal perceptions. “By fostering an inclusive environment, we can help empower more women to thrive in STEM careers,” she says. And while there has been notable progress in recent years, with more women in the MENA region entering STEM careers, Al-Hetlani highlights that there is still untapped potential for further growth and support. “It remains crucial to continue fostering and empowering women in the sciences, as diverse viewpoints contribute to innovation and discovery.

Breaking Boundaries

The winners of the L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science Middle East Regional Young Talents program share their advice and lessons learned to guide young women who want to follow in their footsteps.

• Fatima Alshamsi’s advice to young women aspiring to build a career in STEM? “My biggest piece of advice is to believe in yourself and your abilities,” she says. “STEM can be demanding, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. Don’t hesitate to seek out mentors who can guide and support you — people who will champion your achievements and push you to reach your potential. Also, don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it.” AlShamsi also highlights the importance of collaboration as an instrument for success in the science field. “By lifting each other up, we create an environment where we all rise and succeed together.”
• Dr. Hiam Souheil Chemaitelly encourages young women aspiring to enter the STEM field to embrace confidence, passion, and perseverance as key drivers of success. “By focusing on achievable steps, celebrating progress, and staying determined, you can reach your goals and inspire others along the way,” she states. “Science needs diverse voices, and women’s contributions are invaluable.”
• When asked for advice to young women pursuing careers in STEM, Israa Al Hussain Al Hassan Othman encourages them to trust in their abilities and embrace the challenges along the way. “My advice would be to believe in your abilities and embrace the journey, even when it’s tough,” she points out. “Find mentors, build a supportive network, and stay curious. Celebrate every achievement and remember your perspective is valuable, and you have the power to make a difference in STEM.”
• Dr. Leena Ali Ibrahim adds, “My advice is to focus on building a network of support — surround yourself with mentors and advisors who believe in your potential and will champion your growth.” Additionally, she stresses that passion and resilience are key to overcoming challenges and staying motivated throughout the journey. “Seek opportunities that allow you to thrive, and never underestimate the power of your dedication,” she states.
• For young women navigating STEM fields, Taiba Alamoudi states, “My advice would be to stay persistent and never give up, especially when the learning curve feels steep and overwhelming. If you believe in yourself and stay consistent, the time will come when your efforts and resilience pay off.” Drawing from her own experiences, Alamoudi advises young women in the field to seek mentorship and build a strong support network, reminding others that guidance is often just a click away. “Don’t be afraid to connect with others, build a strong support network, and learn from those who have faced similar challenges.”
• According to Dr. Entesar Al-Hetlani, women should “identify their interests, plan their journey, and establish their future goals at a young age. Seek out mentors and create networks that can aid their path and always keep in mind the value of their contributions.” She continues, “Do not let fear of mistakes or rejections hold you back; these experiences build resilience and guide you forward.”

This article first appeared in the December issue of Inc. Arabia magazine. To read the full issue online, click here.