Women have played a vital role in scientific discovery, although at times their participation has gone unrecognised. Their scholarly research and discoveries have provided a rich tapestry to add to the scientific endeavours of the world. It is important that these women be viewed through the lens of their time, placing their achievements in context throughout the past few centuries.

Their scientific fields of excellence include medicine, biology, astronomy, mathematics, physics, meteorology, geology, zoology and engineering, along with their various sub-categories. The significant contributions by women to science date from the earliest times and this book brings together the stories of those who have left their mark, despite the significant hurdles they have faced.

There are many women who deserve recognition in this way, including the much vaunted Madame Curie and Ada Lovelace, and there are others whose talent is undoubted although they have not received the plaudits they deserve. This book considers the lives and work of talented women from different eras, countries and scientific fields.