Every February 11, the world celebrates the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, a date proclaimed by the UN to recognize the key role of women in research and technological development.
Two scientists from southeastern Mexico stand out in this field: Jessica Jesús Arcudia Muñoz and Mareny Fernández Olaya, who have taken their talent to an international level.
Originally from Mérida, Yucatán, Jessica Arcudia Muñoz, 31, is doing a postdoctoral degree at the University of Texas at Dallas. After studying at UADY and obtaining her doctorate at Cinvestav Mérida, she specialized in computational physics and two-dimensional materials. Her greatest contribution is the development of the JAM language (Joining and Arrangement of Multilayers), which allows materials to be represented with a “fingerprint,” facilitating massive data analysis in materials science and artificial intelligence.
From Ciudad del Carmen, Campeche, Mareny Fernández Olaya, 33, has forged a career in physical chemistry and materials science. Her path began at UADY, where she studied Physical Engineering, and continued at Cinvestav Mérida, where she obtained her doctorate. Currently, she is doing a postdoctoral degree in Montreal, Canada, researching the thermal properties of polymers and their resistance to radiation and heat.
Passionate about phenomena invisible to the naked eye, such as the photoelectric effect, key in solar panel technology, Mareny has overcome personal and professional challenges, including the difficulties of a field dominated by men. Her message for future scientists is clear: “Science needs your creativity, curiosity, and talent.”
Jessica and Mareny represent the talent of southeastern Mexico in global science. With their perseverance and commitment, they demonstrate that women have a fundamental role in innovation and technological development.
TYT Newsroom
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