10 Inspiring Latinas in STEM Leading the Way

Ellen Ochoa – The First Latina in Space

We’ve got to kick things off with Ellen Ochoa, an absolute trailblazer who became the first Latina astronaut to go to space. Ochoa made her historic flight aboard the Space Shuttle Discovery in 1993. She’s logged nearly 1,000 hours in space and has since become a key figure in aerospace engineering. After her time as an astronaut, Ochoa went on to serve as the Director of the Johnson Space Center, making her the first Latina and second woman to ever hold the role. Talk about making history, right?

Dr. Sabrina Gonzalez Pasterski – The Physics Prodigy

If you haven’t heard of Dr. Sabrina Gonzalez Pasterski yet, let’s fix that. She’s often called a physics prodigy and with good reason. Born to Cuban-American parents, Pasterski is a theoretical physicist who focuses on quantum gravity and space-time physics. She’s been compared to Einstein, and she’s even earned the admiration of icons like Stephen Hawking and Jeff Bezos. Pasterski graduated from MIT with a perfect 5.0 GPA and completed her PhD at Harvard. Oh, and she’s only in her late 20s!

Ana Maria Rey – The Quantum Mechanics Expert

Ana Maria Rey is a Colombian-American physicist who’s doing groundbreaking work in quantum mechanics. She’s particularly known for her research on ultracold atoms and their potential for use in quantum computers. Rey’s contributions to this complex field have earned her the MacArthur Fellowship (aka the “Genius Grant”) and recognition from the National Science Foundation. Her work is shaping the future of computing and technology, making her one of the most exciting scientists to watch.

Yajaira Sierra-Sastre – Mars Researcher

Yajaira Sierra-Sastre is a Puerto Rican scientist who participated in NASA’s HI-SEAS mission, a simulation designed to study what life might be like for astronauts on Mars. For four months, she lived in an isolated habitat in Hawaii, collecting data on how humans might survive long-term space missions. Her work helps pave the way for future Mars explorers and gives us a better understanding of what it takes to live on another planet.

Dr. Adriana Ocampo – NASA Scientist & Planetary Geologist

Colombian-born Dr. Adriana Ocampo is a planetary geologist and one of NASA’s most respected scientists. She’s known for her role in discovering the Chicxulub crater, which is believed to be the site of the asteroid impact that wiped out the dinosaurs 66 million years ago. Ocampo’s work has helped us understand how planetary collisions shape the solar system, and she’s been involved in multiple NASA missions, including New Horizons, which explored Pluto. Her work is out of this world—literally.

Dr. Antonia Coello Novello – First Latina Surgeon General

Dr. Antonia Coello Novello made history as the first Latina (and the first woman) to serve as the U.S. Surgeon General under President George H. W. Bush. She’s a Puerto Rican physician who has spent her career advocating for public health, particularly in the areas of pediatric care and AIDS prevention. Dr. Novello’s leadership was instrumental in raising awareness about health disparities in the U.S., and she continues to be an inspiration for Latinas in medicine and public health.

Dr. Nora Volkow – Neuroscientist and Addiction Expert

Dr. Nora Volkow, a Mexican-American psychiatrist and neuroscientist, is the Director of the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA). She’s a pioneer in studying the brain’s mechanisms behind addiction and has helped change the way society understands and treats addiction as a disease, rather than a moral failing. Volkow’s research has had a profound impact on public health policy and addiction treatment, and she’s considered one of the most influential voices in neuroscience today.

Dr. Laura Boykin – Computational Biologist Fighting Food Insecurity

Dr. Laura Boykin is an American computational biologist who has worked with scientists in Africa to address food insecurity by combating whiteflies, insects that damage crops. Her work in genomics has helped small-scale farmers protect their crops, particularly cassava, a vital food source in many parts of the world. She uses her research to develop tools and methods that ensure food security, and she’s been recognized for her commitment to applying science for social good.

Diana Trujillo – Aerospace Engineer at NASA

Born and raised in Colombia, Diana Trujillo came to the U.S. with just $300 in her pocket and a dream of working for NASA. Now, she’s an aerospace engineer who has worked on some of the most exciting projects in space exploration. Trujillo was a flight director for the Mars Perseverance Rover mission, where she led teams that developed the robotic arm that collected Martian soil samples. Her perseverance (pun intended) and talent make her an inspiration to aspiring Latina engineers everywhere.

Dr. Frances Colón – Science Policy Expert

Dr. Frances Colón is a Puerto Rican neuroscientist who’s had a major impact on science policy. As the Deputy Science and Technology Adviser to the U.S. Secretary of State under the Obama administration, Colón helped shape global science and environmental policies. She’s a champion for diversity in STEM and works to make science education accessible to underserved communities. Her work bridges the gap between science and government, proving that STEM isn’t just about lab work—it’s about making real-world changes. Currently, she’s senior director and team leader at the International Climate Policy at American Progress.

Whether they’re building quantum computers, exploring space, or shaping public health policy, these Latinas in STEM are breaking barriers and inspiring the next generation of scientists and engineers. Keep an eye on them, because they’re just getting started!