Less than 30% of scientific researchers worldwide are women, according to United Nations data. Studies have shown women are either discouraged from or become less interested in STEM careers from a young age leaving women underrepresented in the STEM Fields. Despite the challenge of gender discrimation, there are still inspiring women in science you should know. 

Alice Ball

Alice Ball was one of the first African American women to earn a masters from the University of Hawaii, later becoming the first female chemistry professor. At 23 years old, she developed the treatment for leprosy. 

Rosalind Franklin

Since she was 15 years old, Rosalind Franklin knew she wanted to be a scientist. Her DNA research data was able to show the basic dimensions of DNA strands, with the molecule that has two matching matching parts that run in opposite directions. 

Dorothy Hodgkin

Dorothy Hodgkins was the first, and only British woman, to win the Noble Peace Prize in Chemistry. Her research by X-ray techniques showed the structures of important biochemical substances.  

Grace Hopper

Grace Hopper is one of the first computer programmers of the modern age. Through her work, she was able to develop multiple computer languages that are still used today. 

Barbara McClintock

Barbara McClintock is an American botanist that discovered that some genes could be mobile. Her research showed that genetic characteristics is inheritable, passed through generations. 

See the full list of amazing women by reading the full CNN article

Nerd Girl Nation celebrates individuality, diversity and passion. It encourages and inspires girls, through media, to change the world around them by pursuing careers in Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Mathematics (STEAM). Nerd Girls was founded by Dr. Karen Panetta, a professor and Dean at Tufts University and an IEEE Fellow, to empower female engineering students and challenge the stereotypes and myths about women in the profession.  Meet some amazing female engineers who will inspire you.