Frances Arnold

Frances Arnold is an American chemical engineer and Nobel Prize laureate known for her pioneering work in the field of enzyme engineering. She developed techniques to evolve enzymes, which are natural catalysts that speed up chemical reactions, to perform specific tasks. This process, called directed evolution, mimics natural selection to improve the functions of these proteins. Arnold's research has significant applications in medicine, renewable energy, and biotechnology, helping to create more efficient and environmentally friendly processes. In 2018, she was awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry for her groundbreaking contributions to the field.