Five Women Scientists Honored with HUL's Prestigious STEM Fellowship
Five talented women researchers have secured top spots in the third edition of Hindustan Unilever's Women in STEM Fellowship. They are part of a group of eight winners recognized for their exceptional work in science and technology.
Meet the Award-Winning Researchers
The five women stand out for their dedication to critical scientific fields. From left to right, they are Vishnudatha V, Sahana Kumar, Arpitha Jayanth, Ayushi Amin Dey, and Sakshi Shigvan.
Vishnudatha V focuses on clean water and sanitation at the Interdisciplinary Centre for Water Research within the Indian Institute of Science (IISc). Her research aims to improve water quality and access.
Sahana Kumar works in the health and hygiene sector. She conducts her studies in the bioengineering department at IISc, exploring ways to enhance public health.
Arpitha Jayanth tackles climate action and sustainability issues. She is based in the ecology and evolution department at the National Centre for Biological Sciences (NCBS).
Ayushi Amin Dey also specializes in health and hygiene. She carries out her research in the biochemistry department at IISc.
Sakshi Shigvan contributes to health and hygiene as well. She works in the cellular organisation and signalling department at NCBS.
Additional winners came from IIT Madras, highlighting the program's broad reach across India's premier institutions.
Benefits and Selection Process
These winners will receive financial grants to support their pioneering PhD research. The grants provide crucial funding to advance their scientific projects.
They will also gain exclusive mentorship from senior leaders at Hindustan Unilever and renowned academics. This guidance helps them navigate their careers and amplify their impact.
The awards target areas aligned with the United Nations' sustainable development goals (SDGs). These goals include clean water, good health, and climate action.
A rigorous selection process, led independently by the participating institutes, ensures only the most deserving candidates win. This independent review maintains high standards and fairness.
Leadership Perspective
Priya Nair, CEO and Managing Director at Hindustan Unilever, emphasized the importance of such initiatives. She stated that these efforts are critical for creating more opportunities for young women scientists.
Nair also highlighted how the fellowship fosters an inclusive and innovative future. By supporting women in STEM, HUL aims to drive progress in key sustainable development areas.
The Women in STEM Fellowship continues to empower female researchers across India. It provides them with the resources and recognition needed to excel in their fields.
