TOP YOUNG SCIENTISTS SELECTED FOR PRESTIGIOUS MEETING

Six young female South African scientists were nominated by the Academy of Science of South Africa (ASSAf) to attend the 68th Lindau Nobel Laureate Meeting later this year in Lindau, Germany.

The meeting will take place from 24 to 29 June 2018 and a record number of 43 Nobel Laureates are expected to attend. Some 600 young scientists were selected from 84 countries to participate in the meeting which is dedicated to physiology and medicine.

ASSAf as the official partner of the Lindau Foundation and with funding from the Department of Science and Technology (DST) annually nominates young scientists to attend the Lindau Laureate meetings which are designed as a forum for exchange, networking and inspiration.

The young scientists are: Dr Eileen Thomas, Stellenbosch University; Ms Zimkhita Soji, University of Fort Hare; Ms Edith Phalane, North-West University; Ms Blessing Ahiante, North-West University; Dr Bianca Verlinden, University of Pretoria and Ms Shireen Mentor, University of the Western Cape.

Successful scientists are outstanding students, graduate students and postdoctoral students under 35 years of age, conducting research in the field of physiology and medicine. They were selected after a multi-stage international selection process and represent more than 200 scientific institutes, universities, foundations and research-oriented companies from research nations.

The selected young scientists may expect a six-day programme with numerous lectures and panel discussions. Many see the chance to present their own research work at one of the master classes or at the poster session as a special opportunity.

“This summer we will once again welcome the next generation of top researchers. I find it remarkable that we will bring together more than 80 nations in Lindau and in so doing will not only be able to enjoy an intensive exchange between generations but also one that crosses national boundaries,” says Countess Bettina Bernadotte, President of the Council for the Lindau Nobel Laureate Meetings. “It is particularly gratifying that 50 per cent of the young scientists are women.”

ASSAf Executive Officer, Prof Roseanne Diab, also welcomed the all-female group of excellent young scientists who will represent South Africa at the prestigious meeting. “ASSAf is committed to promoting women in science activities and highlighting the importance of applying a gender lens in activities that it undertakes. The Lindau Nobel Laureate programme presents a unique opportunity for young women to meet and interact with Nobel Laureates,” she says.

More information

www.lindau-nobel.org
blog.lindau-nobel.org
mediatheque.lindau-nobel.org
Twitter: #LiNo18

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