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17 July 2024

Mirtha Lourenço: First Portuguese Woman to Win Junior FISoCat 2024

Mirtha Lourenço: First Portuguese Woman to Win Junior FISoCat 2024

CICECO researcher Mirtha Lourenço has made history as the first Portuguese woman to win the prestigious Junior FISoCat award. This international recognition, granted by the Ibero-American Federation of Catalysis Societies, had only been awarded to a Portuguese researcher once before, in 2016, to Adrián Manuel Tavares da Silva from the University of Porto.

Lourenço's nomination was proposed by the Division of Catalysis and Porous Materials of the Portuguese Chemical Society after she received the Ramôa Ribeiro prize for best Young Researcher in May. The Federation comprises eleven member countries, each nominating one candidate for the Junior FISoCat award.

This accolade acknowledges Mirtha's significant contributions to Material Science, particularly in developing catalysts for photo-, electro-, and heterogeneous catalysis. Her work has led to advancements in various catalytic reactions, emphasizing more efficient and eco-friendly chemical and energy production processes. Lourenço's research involves synthesizing new materials with catalytic properties and applying green chemistry principles to minimize environmental impact. She has also been an active participant in international collaborative projects and has published numerous high-impact articles in renowned scientific journals.

Expressing her gratitude, Mirtha highlighted the importance of teamwork in her achievements: “My work involves a team effort, and I am very grateful to all my colleagues and collaborators for the fruitful discussions and projects we have been developing. I've been fortunate to meet many inspiring individuals who have made significant contributions to the field of Catalysis.”

On a personal level, this nomination is a milestone for Mirtha, validating her efforts and achievements in Materials Science for Catalysis. “This not only reinforces my scientific reputation but also opens up new opportunities for collaboration and research funding. On a group level, the nomination elevates the prestige of our research team and institution, fostering a more motivating work environment and encouraging colleagues to strive for excellence in their respective areas of study. Moreover, it strengthens international relations and the visibility of our group in the global scientific community,” she shared.

In conclusion, Mirtha noted that the nomination has greatly incentivized her, reinforcing her passion and commitment to scientific research. “I received the good news with great satisfaction and pride, as it recognizes my hard work and dedication over the years. I feel honored and motivated to continue contributing to the advancement of science and technology in catalysis. Moreover, it is an opportunity to inspire and guide other young researchers and students, sharing knowledge and experiences to help them achieve their own scientific goals.”

For more information on the Ibero-American Federation of Catalysis Societies and its member countries, visit their website.

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