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Dr Jalid’s recognition as one of the top 75 women in chemistry is not only a personal milestone, but a victory for ‘women in science’. Her work, both in research and advocacy, has paved the way for greater inclusion and gender equality in the scientific community
By Shireen Bano
Dr Fatima Jalid, a prominent figure in the field of chemistry, has recently earned a remarkable accolade. An Associate Professor in the Department of Chemical Engineering at the National Institute of Technology (NIT), Srinagar, she has been featured in the newly launched book, She Is – 75 Women in Chemistry.
The book, published by Beyond Black in partnership with the Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser (PSA) to the Government of India and the Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC), UK, was officially unveiled on February 6, 2025, at the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER), Bhopal.
This prestigious recognition, awarded to her by a renowned scientific body, highlights her commitment to advance the discipline, and her consistent efforts to inspire the next generation of scientists, especially women, in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields. Dr Jalid’s journey to success is a testament to her hard work, dedication, and passion for science.
Her career trajectory stands as an inspiration to many. She is an Associate Professor in the Department of Chemistry at the National Institute of Technology (NIT), Srinagar, a premier technical institute in India. Her work at NIT Srinagar has not only enhanced the research capabilities of the institution, but also contributed significantly to the body of knowledge in the field of chemistry. Over the years, she has worked tirelessly on research projects that have advanced our understanding of various chemical processes and their applications in real-world scenarios.
Her research has been centered around the development of novel chemical compounds and processes that have significant implications in fields such as material science, environmental chemistry, and biotechnology. By integrating interdisciplinary approaches, she has been able to offer new insights into the behavior of chemical substances, making substantial contributions to both theoretical and applied chemistry.
The significance of her work extends far beyond the confines of her laboratory. Indeed, she has been an ardent advocate for promoting scientific knowledge and research opportunities for women in science.
In a field traditionally dominated by men, she has broken barriers and emerged as a role model for countless young women who aspire to pursue careers in STEM fields. As a mentor and guide, Dr Jalid has played a vital role in creating an inclusive and supportive environment for female students and researchers at NIT Srinagar.
The recognition of Dr Jalid as one of the top 75 women in chemistry is not merely a personal achievement but also a significant moment for gender equality in the scientific community. Women in science, especially in countries like India, have historically faced numerous challenges, ranging from cultural biases to limited access to educational and research resources. In such an environment, her success is not only a symbol of personal excellence, but also a beacon of hope for other women who wish to make their mark in the world of science.
In addition to her research contributions, she has been an active participant in various initiatives aimed at empowering women in science. She has been involved in organizing workshops, seminars, and outreach programs to raise awareness about the importance of female representation in STEM. Her work in these areas has been instrumental in encouraging young women to take up careers in science and engineering.
Moreover, she has worked on projects that aim to make scientific research more accessible and inclusive. She believes that science is a universal language that should not be confined to a select group of people. In her view, the pursuit of knowledge should be driven by curiosity and a desire to improve society, and this should be open to all, regardless of gender, background, or socio-economic status. By promoting these values, she has fostered an environment where both male and female students feel equally encouraged to pursue careers in scientific research.
Dr Jalid’s achievements speak to the broader movement within India to support women in higher education and research. Over the past decade, there has been a growing emphasis on improving gender parity in academic institutions and research organizations. The recognition of women like her demonstrates the progress that has been made in breaking down barriers and creating more equitable opportunities in the field of science.
In addition to her work at NIT Srinagar, Dr Jalid has published numerous research papers in prestigious international journals, many of which have received high citations. Her research is not only focused on theoretical chemistry, but also on practical applications that can solve real-world problems. Whether it’s developing more efficient materials for energy storage or creating environmentally friendly chemical processes, her work continues to make a significant impact in both academia and industry.
Her achievements are indicative of the growing recognition of Indian scientists on the global stage. While India has long been known for producing brilliant minds in the field of science and technology, the recent recognition of Dr Jalid highlights the country’s increasing contributions to global scientific progress. As the scientific community continues to become more globalized, the work of scientists like her demonstrates the important role that Indian researchers are playing in shaping the future of chemistry and related fields, in India and across the world.
Her success is a testament to the importance of perseverance, resilience, and passion for one’s chosen field.
Throughout her career, she has faced numerous challenges, but her unwavering dedication to her research and commitment to advancing the role of women in science have made her a true trailblazer. Her journey proves that with the right support, opportunities, and determination, any obstacle can be overcome.
As she continues her work in the field of chemistry, she remains committed to inspiring the next generation of female scientists. She believes that the future of science depends on fostering diversity, innovation, and collaboration. By encouraging young women to pursue their scientific ambitions, she hopes to create a future where women are equally represented in every field of study and research.
Dr Fatima Jalid’s recognition as one of the top 75 women in chemistry is not only a personal milestone, but a victory for ‘women in science’. Her work, both in research and advocacy, has paved the way for greater inclusion and gender equality in the scientific community.
Her journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring scientists worldwide, proving that with dedication, hard work, and a passion for knowledge, one can overcome all kind of challenges and achieve greatness in their chosen fields. As she continues to break barriers and inspire others, her legacy will undoubtedly shape the future of chemistry and STEM education for generations to come.