Szeged-based Portuguese scientist won L’Oréal–UNESCO For Women in Science Award

Portuguese scientist Ana Martins, a senior research fellow at the HUN-REN Biological Research Centre in Szeged, is among three Hungarian-based researchers honored this year with the L’Oréal–UNESCO For Women in Science Award for outstanding achievements in medical and pharmaceutical research.

Martins was recognized for her work in identifying natural compounds that may protect the blood–brain barrier from oxidative stress and inflammation, potentially slowing the progression of neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, and ALS. Her research aims to develop affordable and effective solutions to protect high-risk groups — including people with type 2 diabetes — and to contribute to the prevention and treatment of severe brain disorders.

The other awardees are Orsolya Pipek, a research fellow at Eötvös Loránd University in Budapest, who develops algorithms for faster genetic data analysis to improve cancer diagnostics, and Julianna Oláh of the Budapest University of Technology and Economics, who applies computational chemistry to make drug development and industrial processes more efficient and sustainable.

The L’Oréal–UNESCO For Women in Science fellowship, now in its 23rd year in Hungary, recognizes exceptional female researchers and includes a total grant of 7.5 million forints. Since its launch, 63 Hungarian women scientists have received the award, with a total of more than 95 million forints distributed so far.

The winners were announced Wednesday at a ceremony held at the Hungarian Academy of Sciences in Budapest. The program’s patron is the Academy, and the recipients are selected by a jury of academics.

Source: Hungarian News Agency (MTI)

Featured image source: HUN-REN Biological Research Center, Szeged