Dr. Nguyễn Thụy Bá Linh has been honored at the TechWomen 100 awards for her contributions to advanced materials technology research applied in biomedicine and tissue regeneration.
Out of thousands of nominations, Dr. Nguyễn Thụy Bá Linh, 44, from University College London (UCL) is the only Vietnamese recipient among the 100 winners at TechWomen 100 in 2024. The award recognizes and celebrates potential female leaders in technology who have outstanding achievements and community impact in the United Kingdom. Among the honorees over the years, Dr. Linh is the first Vietnamese scientist to be included in this list.
Dr. Nguyễn Thụy Bá Linh. (Photo: Provided by the subject).
Dr. Linh has made significant contributions to science, innovation, and leadership in the biotechnology field, particularly in regenerative medicine. She graduated with a degree in Chemistry from the University of Science in Ho Chi Minh City in 2003. After earning her Ph.D. at Soonchunhyang University in South Korea with research focused on regenerative medicine, Dr. Linh joined the Institute of Biomedical Engineering at the University of Oxford as a postdoctoral researcher, pursuing vital research directions in biomedical engineering and tissue regeneration. She and her colleagues developed large-scale polycaprolactone bead technology aimed at harvesting stem cells. This research was patented and successfully commercialized. For this work, she received the Outstanding Postdoctoral Researcher Award from her department at Oxford in 2017.
Since 2019, Dr. Linh has been a lecturer in Biomaterials at the Eastman Dental Institute, University College London (UCL). Her research focuses on biomaterials for tissue regeneration, drug delivery systems, and thermoresponsive polymers for the expansion and harvesting of stem cells. She has undertaken several major projects related to the technology of bone and skin regeneration.
Dr. Linh has published over 50 peer-reviewed articles, two book chapters, and holds two patents. She also serves as an editor and reviewer for many prestigious journals, such as the Journal of Biomaterials Applications, and teaches courses on nanomedicine, biomedical engineering applications, and clinical science. From 2021 to 2023, Dr. Linh served as an advisor and community leader, chairing the Vietnam Young Academy, mentoring young scientists through the Vietnam Intellectual Community in the UK and Ireland.
In addition to her academic research, she is the founder and CEO of SmileScaff, a company specializing in the development of advanced material technologies to accelerate wound healing and tissue regeneration. SmileScaff integrates advanced biomaterials with practical medical applications to revolutionize tissue engineering.
Dr. Linh (center) receiving an award at the Spinout Showdown pitching competition organized by UCLB, part of University College London. (Photo: Provided by the subject).
Sharing with reporters from the UK, Dr. Linh expressed immense pride, stating that the award is a voice of support for women in the field of science and technology, honoring women who overcome challenges and barriers to become role models for others, especially those from developing countries. “I aspire to be an inspiration for the talented technology generation in Vietnam and globally, demonstrating that limits can be broken, and achievements can be attained through passion and dedication.”
Dr. Linh indicated that she will enhance her research and biotechnology projects, bringing innovative solutions into practice. She hopes to collaborate with leading researchers, organizations, and science and technology companies. The female doctor also expects that the next generation of scientists will be well-prepared to continue developing this vital field, raising awareness of the challenges and opportunities for women in STEM, and inspiring young people to pursue careers in technology and science.
Launched in 2017, TechWomen100 is the first award to honor women working in technology in the United Kingdom. The award also includes categories that celebrate senior champions, global advocates, pioneering companies, and networks supporting women’s career development in technology.
In its third year, TechWomen100 2024 received over 1,150 applications, undergoing several rounds of review and voting to honor 100 outstanding women. The award ceremony will take place on November 21 at the Queen Elizabeth II Centre, London, UK.
