Thailand's wonder women of science
By Pongphon Sarnsamak
Daily Xpress
Published on April 25, 2008
These four ladies won the L'Oreal award for their advances in science and technology
Four researchers who discovered new materials and way to improve quality of life have been named L'Oreal Women in Science Award winners. Unesco supports the award. This year's winners are Anchalee Manonukul, Voravee Hoven, Suchana Apple Chavanich and Kobkul Laoteng. Anchalee and Voravee won in the field of material science and Suchana and Kobkul for life sciences. Each receives Bt200,000. The award started five years ago and helps advance women in their research field. So far, 19 women have won the award.
Their contributions to society National Metal and Materials Technology Centre researcher Anchalee developed a process that uses metal dust to produce products such as medical implants. Chulalongkorn University researcher Voravee found a new technique that makes detecting DNA sequences more efficient, thus allowing effective diagnoses of genetic diseases. Chulalongkorn University marine scientist Suchana unearthed new findings about the impact on the ocean floor and coral reefs following the 2003 tsunami. National Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology researcher Kobkul studied how to extract gamma-linolenic acid, an essential fatty acid in the omega-6 family found in plants, from fungi called Mucor rouxii. It is essential to health but cannot be made in the body. The acid is used to make medicines and cosmetics. Until now, the local industry has imported this expensive acid and her discovery makes it easier for local manufacturers to produce.
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