U.S. Ambassador Anne Patterson recognized the outstanding contributions of Egyptian women in science during a  reception co-hosted by the Bibliotheca Alexandrina and the U.S. Consulate General in Alexandria. At the event, Ambassador Patterson inducted Alexandria University Professor Dr. Boshra Salem into the State Department’s 2013 Women in Science Hall of Fame for the Middle East and North Africa.

“The U.S. and Egypt have a long history of scientific cooperation,” said Ambassador Patterson. “Women on both sides of the Atlantic work together every day, making new discoveries that help us lead better lives.”

Dr. Salem is one of Egypt’s leading ecologists and an expert on sustainable development in arid lands. She co-founded Alexandria University’s Department of Environmental Sciences, where she teaches and manages a remote sensing laboratory. Her research applies advanced remote sensing and geographic information systems to wildlife and conservation, with a particular focus on Egypt’s northwest coast. Dr. Salem is also involved in desert development through UNESCO’s Man and Biosphere Programme, most recently working on a project to bring solar desalinization technology to Bedouin communities in Egypt and 10 other countries.

“Across Egypt, women are doing groundbreaking work in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and math,” said Ambassador Patterson. “Through this award, we acknowledge not only the remarkable contributions of our honoree, but we also hope to inspire younger generations of women and girls to pursue a life of intellectual challenge and discovery.”

Ms. Hoda Elmikati, head of the Bibliotheca Alexandrina’s cultural outreach sector, welcomed attendees to the Library, and Alexandria University President Dr. Osama Ibrahim delivered closing remarks. A range of government officials, graduate students, researchers, and development professionals attended the reception.

The State Department’s Middle East and North Africa Environment, Science, Technology, and Health Office initiated a “Women in Science Hall of Fame” in 2010 to honor outstanding female scientists throughout the region.  A dozen women are selected for their accomplishments each year.  

Watch Dr. Boshra Salem's  interview with Dina Abdel Rahman, "Zay El Shams" TV Show on CBC, 26 March 2013, through this link.