In 2024, Azahara Oliva, an assistant professor of neurobiology and behavior in the College of Arts and Sciences, was awarded the international Suffrage Science Award for Life Sciences. This prestigious award, launched on the 100th anniversary of International Women’s Day, aims to create a cohort of talented individuals who can inspire others to pursue careers in science and achieve leadership roles.
The nine winners were recognized at an event on March 7 at the University of Oxford and received heirloom jewelry pieces designed with the traditional suffragette colors of green, violet, and white. The jewelry, crafted by master jeweler Martin Baker based on designs by students at art and design college Central Saint Martins-UAL, is meant to be worn by the awardees for two years.
Azahara Oliva expressed her joy in generating new knowledge as a scientist and acknowledged the challenges faced by individuals on their scientific journey. She emphasized her commitment to supporting and uplifting others to help them stay focused on their goals. She highlighted the importance of retaining the next generation of women in STEM fields, stressing that immense talent could be lost if not properly supported.
Oliva was honored to be part of the Suffrage Network and its mission to promote diversity and inclusivity in STEM. For more information about this award-winning researcher, visit the College of Arts and Sciences website.
