Engineer Buse Aktaş Receives 'For Women in Science' Award

Buse Aktaş, an award-winning engineer and artist, has been recognized as one of this year's recipients of the 'For Women in Science' award. This honor is awarded by UNESCO and L'Oréal to promote and highlight women in science. Aktaş has distinguished herself through her innovative approach to technical challenges and her artistic perspective. She emphasizes that her decision to study art does not contradict her engineering education; rather, she views the two disciplines as complementary.

Her work combines technical precision with creative concepts, leading to unique solutions in engineering. This interdisciplinary viewpoint has enabled her to forge new paths in research. The engineer has collaborated on various projects with artists and scientists to develop innovative approaches. One example is her project on sustainable urban development, where she integrated artistic elements into technical planning. This methodology has created not only aesthetic but also functional benefits for urban spaces.

Aktaş believes that creativity is essential in science. She argues that many technical problems can be solved through a creative approach that goes beyond traditional engineering methods. Her work has demonstrated that interdisciplinary approaches often lead to more effective and sustainable solutions. The 'For Women in Science' award is presented annually to women who have made outstanding contributions in their fields. Aktaş is the first engineer to receive the award this year.

Her recognition is also intended to encourage other women to establish themselves in technical professions and to utilize their creative talents. Aktaş has won numerous awards throughout her career and is regarded as a role model for young female scientists. She is actively involved in promoting girls and women in STEM fields. Her workshops and lectures aim to spark interest in technology and science while breaking down barriers. The connection between art and science is a central theme in Aktaş's work.

She believes that integrating creative processes into technical disciplines not only enhances innovation but also improves societal acceptance of technologies. Her projects aim to raise awareness of the importance of aesthetics in engineering. Aktaş plans to further expand her research in the coming years, intending to initiate new projects that closely intertwine art and technology. Her goal is to create a platform where artists and engineers can collaboratively work on solutions to societal challenges.

“Where's the fun in that?” Aktaş asks, emphasizing that joy and creativity are essential in science. She sees her work as a contribution to creating a more inclusive and creative scientific world. The award ceremony took place on October 30, 2026, in Paris, where Aktaş accepted her award and presented her vision for the future of interdisciplinary collaboration.