[Source: University Arizona Communications] – Katrina Miranda seemed destined to become a scientist from an early age. Ever since grade school, science was her favorite subject, and by the time she took her first chemistry class in high school, she was hooked. In December, The University of Arizona chemistry professor was honored in Washington, D.C., with an award from the National Science Foundation for innovative research that could change the way we treat disease.
Miranda, an associate professor in the chemistry department and the BIO5 Institute, was one of 67 researchers nationwide to be honored with a 2007 Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers.
Nine federal departments and agencies – the departments of Agriculture, Commerce, Defense, Education, Energy, Health and Human Services: National Institutes of Health, Veterans Affairs, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration and the National Science Foundation – nominate scientists and engineers for the prestigious award, established in 1996 to honor promising researchers at the outset of their careers.
Miranda, who has been at the UA for six years, was one of 20 recognized by the National Science Foundation. Her primary research focus involves nitric oxide and its role in disease, and the goal of her work is to provide pharmacological therapies for diseases such as cancer, heart failure and stroke.
“I was very surprised,” she said of the award, which is the highest professional honor she has received.
Miranda was recognized in Washington, D.C., where she visited the NSF offices, met the White House science adviser and NSF deputy director, toured the White House and had a group photo taken with President George W. Bush.
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