In a powerful recognition of scientific excellence and advocacy for gender equity, Professor Baker from the University of the Western Cape (UWC) has been awarded the prestigious 2025 L’Oréal–UNESCO For Women in Science International Award. The honour highlights her groundbreaking research in wearable electrochemical sensors and her tireless efforts to promote inclusivity in STEM.
Growing up in Bellville South during apartheid-era South Africa, Prof Baker’s early education was disrupted by the State of Emergency in 1986. Yet, she persevered. In 1990, she made history as the first woman of colour to graduate with a BSc in Physical Oceanography from the University of Cape Town. Despite facing institutional discrimination — including being denied the opportunity to pursue honours due to exclusionary practices in marine science — she redirected her path to analytical chemistry.
“Boats weren’t equipped for women, and the crew wasn’t ready to accept a person of colour as a professional,” Prof Baker recalled.
Guided by mentors like Prof Andrew Crouch, she went on to complete her PhD in Chemistry at Stellenbosch University and has since committed herself to mentoring young scientists, especially women.
Now co-director of UWC’s SensorLab with Prof Emmanuel Iwuoha, Prof Baker is at the forefront of developing electrochemical sensors that detect health biomarkers and environmental pollutants. These innovations promise to transform healthcare in underserved areas by enabling early detection and continuous monitoring of non-communicable diseases such as diabetes, cancer, and heart disease.
“Modern medicine often reacts after the fact. Our sensors offer the potential for early warnings that could shift that narrative,” she said.
Thanks to recent investment from the Department of Science and Innovation (DSI), her team is scaling up efforts through a newly established Electrochemical Sensors Node at UWC’s NanoMicro Manufacturing Facility. Here, they’re printing flexible sensors and testing them in real-world environments.
Her work extends beyond health, with impacts in energy and environmental monitoring. She has built strong international collaborations, including a longstanding partnership with CY Paris University that supports joint research, publications, and student exchanges.
Among her most promising projects is a biosensor that detects uric acid in gout patients, with the potential to integrate the technology into shoe insoles for continuous monitoring.
Despite the progress made, Prof Baker remains vocal about systemic challenges facing women in science.
“Women often face career disruptions due to caregiving responsibilities. Institutions must recognise and address these gaps,” she said. “We need leadership grounded in excellence, fairness, and kindness.”
Prof Baker’s career is a testament to perseverance, innovation, and her vision for a more inclusive scientific community. As she breaks new ground in sensor technology and mentorship, she continues to inspire a new generation of scientists to lead with purpose.
