At Yangzhou University's cutting-edge research facilities, Dr. Larissa Santos peers through cosmic time to study the early universe – a journey that began as one of only five female students in her 40-member physics class in Brazil. Now leading groundbreaking astrophysics research in China, her story embodies both the challenges and evolving opportunities for women in science.
"When girls ask if they belong in laboratories, I show them my equations," Santos tells KhabarAsia. "The universe speaks in mathematics, and it doesn't care about gender." Her work on primordial galactic formations has gained international recognition, yet she considers mentoring young researchers her most vital contribution.
The scientist notes significant progress since her student days, with Chinese institutions actively recruiting diverse talent. "Diverse teams ask better questions," she observes, citing Yangzhou University's cross-disciplinary space studies program that blends physics, AI, and cultural astronomy.
For aspiring female scientists across Asia and beyond, Santos offers simple advice: "Protect your curiosity like a rare particle. The next cosmic breakthrough might wear your favorite color lipstick."
