When you think of groundbreaking discoveries in science, the names of Albert Einstein, Marie Curie or Isaac Newton often come to mind. However, many Black female scientists have been just as impactful, even if they have not always received the recognition they deserve. Despite facing systemic barriers in education and professional spaces, these brilliant women have made history in fields ranging from medicine to engineering.
Black Female Scientists
Dr. Patricia Bath (1942-2019) – Inventor & Ophthalmologist
Dr. Patricia Bath revolutionized ophthalmology as the first Black woman to receive a medical patent. She invented the Laserphaco Probe, a device used for cataract surgery that has restored sight to thousands of people worldwide. As a strong advocate for vision care, she co-founded the American Institute for the Prevention of Blindness and worked tirelessly to ensure that underserved communities had access to eye care.
Dr. Marie Maynard Daly (1921-2003) – Pioneering Biochemist
Dr. Marie Maynard Daly was the first Black woman in the United States to earn a Ph.D. in chemistry. Her groundbreaking research focused on the chemistry of nucleic acids and the effects of hypertension on arteries. Daly’s work helped lay the foundation for understanding the relationship between high blood pressure and cardiovascular health, contributing to modern treatments for heart disease. She also made it her mission to encourage young Black students to pursue careers in science.
Dr. Jane Cooke Wright (1919-2013) – Cancer Research Trailblazer
Dr. Jane Cooke Wright was a trailblazer in cancer research and a pioneer in chemotherapy. She played a crucial role in developing innovative treatments for cancer patients and was one of the first scientists to use human tissue culture instead of lab animals for testing new drugs. Wright was also the highest-ranking Black woman in medical academia during her time, serving as an associate dean at New York Medical College.
Dr. Kizzmekia Corbett (b. 1986) – Leading COVID-19 Vaccine Scientist
Dr. Kizzmekia Corbett played a crucial role in the development of the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine. As a viral immunologist, she worked on coronavirus research years before the pandemic and led efforts to design the vaccine that has helped save millions of lives. Corbett is not only a scientist, but also an advocate for health education, making science accessible to the Black community.
Dr. Gladys West (b. 1930) – Mathematician Behind GPS Technology
Without Dr. Gladys West, your phone’s GPS wouldn’t work. She was a key figure in the mathematical modeling that led to the development of the Global Positioning System (GPS). As one of the few Black women working at the U.S. Naval Weapons Laboratory in the 1950s, she made significant contributions to satellite geodesy, allowing us to navigate with precision today.
Dr. Mae Jemison (b. 1956) – Astronaut & Engineer
Dr. Mae Jemison made history as the first Black woman to travel to space in 1992. Before becoming an astronaut, she was a medical doctor and engineer. After her spaceflight aboard the Endeavour, she focused on promoting science education and founded the Jemison Group to inspire young women of color to pursue STEM careers.
Dr. Dorothy Lavinia Brown (1919-2004) – Pioneering Surgeon
Dr. Dorothy Lavinia Brown was the first Black woman to become a surgeon in the southeastern United States. She was also an advocate for women’s health and reproductive rights. Beyond her medical contributions, she served as a legislator in Tennessee, fighting for educational and health policies that benefited Black communities.
Dr. Lisa Gelobter (b. 1971) – Tech Innovator & Computer Scientist
Dr. Lisa Gelobter is a computer scientist who helped develop the animation software that led to the creation of GIFs. She has worked in technology for companies, like Hulu, and was part of the team that modernized the U.S. Department of Education’s digital services. Gelobter continues to be a leader in technology, advocating for diversity in S.T.E.M. fields.
Dr. Shirley Ann Jackson (b. 1946) – Trailblazing Physicist
Dr. Shirley Ann Jackson is a physicist whose work has had a lasting impact on telecommunications. As the first Black woman to earn a Ph.D. from MIT in physics, she conducted research that led to innovations, such as caller ID and fiber-optic cables. Jackson later became the president of Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, where she continues to inspire the next generation of scientists and engineers.
Dr. Nina Tandon (b. 1980s) – Biomedical Engineer
Dr. Nina Tandon is a biomedical engineer known for her work in regenerative medicine. She is the CEO and co-founder of EpiBone, a company that grows bones using patients’ own cells for reconstructive surgery. Her work is revolutionizing medicine by making bone grafts more effective and less invasive.
Honoring the Legacy of Black Women in STEM
Black female scientists have been breaking barriers and making significant contributions to the world for generations. Their work has saved lives, advanced technology and inspired countless others to pursue careers in S.T.E.M. Representation matters, and these brilliant women prove that Black women belong in every scientific field. Whether you’re pursuing a career in S.T.E.M. or just appreciating the impact of science in everyday life, remember that Black women have always been at the forefront of innovation.