On the occasion of the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, Mastercard and the Real Academia de Ciencias de España (FRACE) held the 6th edition of the Young Female Scientific Talent Awards, a recognition that promotes the visibility and leadership of young women scientists in STEM fields.

In this edition, four researchers were recognized in their respective areas: Marina Murillo Arcila in “Mathematics,” Izaskun Jiménez Serra in “Physics and Chemistry,” Biola Javierre Martínez in “Biology and Geology,” and Jelena Radjenovic in “Applications of Science to Technology.”

Jelena, a researcher at ICRA-ICREA, leads the strategic line “next-generation solutions and nature-inspired technologies” at the Catalan Institute for Water Research (ICRA). She was awarded for her leadership in developing innovative electrochemical technologies for the removal of emerging contaminants from water. About the recognition, Jelena stated:

“Awards like the FRACE Prizes are extremely important to try to correct historical injustices toward women scientists and celebrate their achievements, which are often overlooked. Hopefully, the day will come when such awards are no longer needed!”

The ceremony, held at the Real Academia de Ciencias de España headquarters in Madrid, was attended by the Undersecretary for Science, Innovation, and Universities, Carlos Marco Estellés. Ana Crespo, President of the Royal Academy, highlighted that these awards help make young researchers visible and promote gender equality in science.

Paloma Real, President of Mastercard’s Western Europe Division, emphasized that these awards recognize researchers who, with their talent and effort, contribute to developing solutions for society’s major challenges.

The event also featured María Jesús Puerta Angulo, a Spanish mining engineer and the only winner outside the United States of NASA’s Luna Recycle Challenge, who shared her inspiring experience with the attendees.