Portsmouth astrophysicist will feature in exhibition of leading women

Dr Jen Gupta, the SEPnet/Ogden Outreach Officer from the university’s Institute of Cosmology and Gravitation (ICG), appears alongside other prominent women in astronomy, space science and geophysics.

The portraits were commissioned to celebrate the 100-year anniversary of women finally winning the right to be elected to fellowship of the RAS.

Dr Gupta said: ‘It’s an absolute honour to be included in this portrait exhibition among so many leading women in modern-day astronomy.

‘The portraits show a mix of female scientists at different stages of their careers, and it’s humbling to feature alongside some incredible scientists who I greatly admire.

‘It’s staggering to think that early female astronomers had to fight so hard and for so long to gain recognition for their work.

‘I hope this important anniversary encourages even more girls and young women to study astronomy.’

Professor Bob Nichol, director of ICG, said: ‘I’m thrilled and proud that one of our outstanding female astronomers appears in this exhibition.

‘We are committed to promoting women in science and Dr Gupta’s recognition is wonderful news for her and for the university.’

The full photographic exhibition can be found on the RAS website at women.ras.ac.uk.