AN academic who invented a microscope to unlock the mysteries of the atomic world will receive the world’s most prestigious science prize for women on Thursday.
Physicist professor Pratibha Gai, of the University of York, will be given the L’Oreal-UNESCO For Women In Science European Laureate at a ceremony in Paris.
Prof Pratibha’s microscope enables scientists to develop new forms of antibiotics and environmentally-friendly biofuel.
A spokesman for the awards said: “Prof Pratibha hasn’t patented her incredible invention as she wants to help science advancement worldwide.”
The equipment she inspired is already being used by manufacturers and numerous scientists worldwide to make discoveries already with an estimated worth of £250m.
She said: “It is not often that a scientist can see their work changing the future of science investigation in their own lifetime.”
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