Women inventors of the 20th century
The history of science and the development of innovations has been marked by the contributions of women who envisioned and demonstrated new ideas. From Hypatia of Alexandria, a fifth-century pioneer in philosophy and mathematics; Marie Curie, dedicated to the study of chemical elements and radioactivity; to Rosalind Franklin, who provided very relevant X-ray images for understanding genetics; there is an arsenal of women passionately dedicated to scientific life and teaching.
The list of these scientists comprises astronomers, geologists, biochemists, philosophers, mathematicians, etc. Although all the contributions are significant, we will talk about inventions that found a practical application. We will call the mind behind those ideas WOMEN INVENTORS OF THE 20th CENTURY.
MARGARITA SALAS, Spain
She dedicated her career to the study of viruses and contributed to basic knowledge about gene expression. She provided important findings on the molecule that allows to amplify the genetic material (the DNA polymerase protein), which have multiple applications in biotechnology and medicine. She actively developed inventions that allowed her to register eight patents related to methods for the detection, amplification and transfer of genetic material.
DOROTHY CROWFOOT, United Kingdom
Dorothy described the structure of cholesterol and insulin, biomolecules of foremost importance to human health. She also reported the structure of penicillin, promoting the manufacture of this essential drug in the treatment of bacterial infections - and is widely used today. For these contributions, she received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1964.
HEDY LAMARR, Austria
She invented and patented a torpedo control system that evaded its detection in 1942. This idea was not applied until 1962 when the patent was recognized. That technology is the basis of the WiFi-based wireless communication.
GRACE MURRAY, United States
She was dedicated to computing and the development of the first commercial computer made in the United States. Her research focuses on the development of informatic programs that transform common language into codes recognized by computers.
ÁNGELA RUIZ ROBLES, Spain
Inspired by her career as an educator, she registered two patents related to novel educational materials that made learning more enjoyable and didactic. The first was a system where children can select the lessons. Then, a sheet will be mechanically raised and illuminated to allow reading. Later, she proposed the so-called Mechanical Encyclopaedia - where an optical system was used to display the lessons on a magnifying screen. Those ideas would facilitate understanding and visualizing the content. This invention was envisioned to incorporate phosphorescence or electric light at night.
GLADIS WEST, United States
She was dedicated to mathematics and focused on the recording and processing of satellite data. Her work was essential for the development of the Global Positioning System (GPS).
If interested in the work of another scientist who invented things that we use now days, see the post below.
Author: K. Salazar (Ph.D. in Biochemistry)