Dr. Renu Geetha Bai receives the Baltic Women in Science Fellowship

The €7,000 fellowship recognises her scientific achievements to date and supports the continuation of her research.

Dr Renu Geetha Bai was selected in the category of Doctor of Sciences in Natural Sciences, including Environmental Sciences. Her research focuses on the development of Algal Nano Shield, a nanoencapsulated astaxanthin–fucoidan formulation. By combining these two bioactive compounds derived from algae, the formulation aims to enhance their positive effects and minimise their limitations. In the future, this innovative preparation could be incorporated into skin care products to prevent photodamage and lower the risk of skin cancer.

Astaxanthin is known for its antioxidant, anti-ageing, anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties, yet its instability limits wider use. Fucoidan also has anti-inflammatory and anticancer effects and supports the skin’s natural defences, but occurs in algae in very small quantities. The synergy created by combining these two compounds offers promising potential for both cosmetic and medical applications.

“The role of women scientists in society is highly multifaceted: they are researchers, supervisors, innovators and implementers, while also striving to maintain balance with their home life,” said Academy Member Anne Kahru, Chair of the Estonian selection committee, emphasising the importance of supporting women researchers on their career path.

The joint award ceremony for all Baltic laureates will take place on Tuesday, 27 November at 13:00 at the Latvian Academy of Sciences in Riga and will also be streamed live on the website of the Estonian Academy of Sciences.

Other Estonian fellowship recipients:

• Katriin Reedo (Tallinn University of Technology) – awarded in the category of Doctoral Candidate in Engineering and Technology for research advancing pyrite-based solar cells, a promising and cost-effective photovoltaic technology with potential applications also in space in cooperation with the European Space Agency.
• Dr Kerttu Rozenvalde (University of Tartu) – awarded in the category of Doctor of Sciences in Humanities and the Arts for research on the use of English as a language of instruction at the University of Tartu and the hidden language policies shaping students’ experiences in Estonian higher education.

A total of 38 women researchers applied for the fellowships, including 19 doctoral candidates and 19 researchers holding a doctoral degree.

The goal of the fellowship is to support and empower women scientists in the Baltic States in building and advancing their scientific careers. In Estonia, the fellowships are funded by the Ministry of Education and Research.