Imagine yourself in Paris, on an October day, where science shines in the spotlight. Among the promising researchers who are awarded the L’Oréal-UNESCO Young Talents France Prize for Women in Science, two Girondins stand out. They are among the 35 winners this year, chosen from more than 800 candidates from all over France. Their journey, as inspiring as it is remarkable, reflects not only their passion for research, but also their commitment to developing science for women.
Since 2007, this prestigious award highlights talented women scientistswhether in the areas of medicineof theastrophysicsor even social sciences. In 2024, these researchers, doctorantes et post-doctorantesreceive grants ranging from 15,000 to 20,000 euros, significant assistance to boost their careers. But beyond the financial reward, it is a recognition of their work and their potential to transform the scientific world.
Among them, Melissa Maccalioriginally from Mérignac, makes a remarkable entrance. After a ten-year career as a nurse, including several years within the NGO Médecins Sans Frontières, she turned to research at the University of Bordeaux. Now a post-doctoral student, she is tackling a subject of capital importance: detection of suicidal behavior in young adults. His atypical journey, combining field care and academic researchproves that passion for the well-being of others can transcend disciplines.
By his side, Marion Zannesean astrophysicist from Cestas, takes us on a journey to the heart of the stars. Since her childhood, the universe has fascinated her. She chose to devote herself tostudy of stars and planetsseeking to unravel the mysteries that surround us. A doctoral student at the Institute of Space Astrophysics at the University of Paris-Saclay, Marion not only has stars in her eyes. She also has a vision well anchored in the present. Marion embodies this new generation of scientists who not only want understand the universebut also changing mentalities in the world of research.
These two Gironde researchers, with their different but equally inspiring backgrounds, are proof that science can be a formidable lever for change. They also show that diversity of experiences, perspectives and personal goals can enrich research and pave the way for crucial discoveries for the future.
By rewarding these talents, the L’Oréal-UNESCO Foundation for Women in Science is not only saluting brilliant careers. It also sends a strong message: women have their well-deserved place in fields where they are still too often under-represented. In France, they still represent only 28% of academics in the basic sciences. Figures that must evolve, and initiatives like this price are there to remind us of this.
So, whether you are passionate about research or simply curious about the world around you, remember these names: Melissa Maccali et Marion Zannese. They are part of this generation of women scientists who are shaking up the codes and charting their path towards a more egalitarian and inclusive future.
Also read: Vines of the future near Bordeaux?
