Women in chemistry: Q&A with Professor Carolina Horta Andrade

I chose to become a scientist because of a gradual realization of my passion for research and inquiry, which began during my undergraduate studies in Pharmacy. I have always been fascinated by science, natural phenomena, and biological processes, fueled by my curiosity from a young age.

I am currently leading a groundbreaking and exciting initiative known as SOFIA, which stands for Sensorial Olfactory Framework Immersive with AI. This research and development project is part of the Advanced Knowledge Center for Immersive Technologies (AKCIT, https://akcit.ufg.br/) which aims to position Brazil as a leader in the fields of artificial intelligence and virtual reality. SOFIA project resonates deeply with me because olfaction is a complex sensation arising from the interaction of small chemical molecules, known as odorants, with olfactory receptors. This intricate interaction is at the heart of our research, as we strive to understand how a single olfactory molecule can interact with multiple receptors simultaneously, including the orphan olfactory receptors that do not interact with known odorants.

I believe that the future direction of my research field should heavily embrace the advancements in artificial intelligence technologies, particularly in virtual reality (VR). My current work focuses on developing AI models that significantly enhance the immersive experience, with applications spanning various fields, including education, healthcare and cosmetology. This area of research is on the cutting edge, as only a small number of scientists globally are exploring these innovative intersections, and we are optimistic about bringing a new product to fruition soon.

I find the most stimulating aspect of my research to be the drive to develop medications for the thousands of individuals suffering from diseases that currently have no effective treatment. The opportunity to contribute to improving lives is incredibly motivating. Additionally, sharing my knowledge and experiences and teaching others is both inspiring and rewarding. However, there are moments of frustration when our efforts go unrecognized by society and government, which can make the journey challenging. Nonetheless, my commitment to advancing science remains unwavering.

I encourage young women in science to never give up and to always have confidence in themselves. It’s essential to pursue your dreams, even when it feels like the universe is conspiring against you. If you’re passionate about a scientific career, move forward with dedication and determination. Being a woman should never be seen as a barrier to success in the scientific field; we have the strength and intelligence to overcome challenges and achieve our goals.

One of the most memorable moments in my career was receiving the Brazilian Women in Chemistry Award in 2022, presented by the American Chemical Society and the Brazilian Chemical Society. This recognition came at a pivotal time, right after I returned from maternity leave with my second child. The COVID-19 pandemic had caused me (probably everyone) to seriously reevaluate my future and question whether I wanted to continue living a life fully dedicated to my work.

Yes, for sure! I have been fortunate to receive support from three influential scientists in my life: my three advisors, two of whom are women—Prof. Elizabeth Ferreira from USP and Dr. Kerly Pasqualoto—along with my co-advisor in the United States, Prof. Anton Hopfinger. Both women have served as inspiring role models and leaders in their fields. Prof. Beth, always poised and articulate, continues to inspire me to this day—she is truly an incredible woman! My dear Kerly was always ready to help, even late at night and on weekends. I would go to her house with my desktop computer, and we would spend hours installing programs and running calculations on Linux. I learned so much from her!

First and foremost, achieving a balanced representation of men and women in editorial positions is essential. Also, it’s very important to ensure gender parity among reviewers, awardees of grants, and leadership roles within academic publishing. Women must be afforded the same opportunities and conditions as their male counterparts to advance in their careers.

Recognize and appreciate the contributions of fellow women scientists! Elevate their achievements and engage in meaningful conversations with them to celebrate your successes together. It’s essential that we unite rather than distance ourselves from one another. I believe this is one of the primary barriers we face.