Psychology Professor Regina Carelli and Chemistry Professor Marcey Waters have been named 2011-2013 WOWS (Working on Women in Science) Scholars for the College of Arts and Sciences. The honor recognizes their roles as outstanding scholars, teachers, mentors and leaders, and will support their activities over the next two years to advance the status of women in the sciences at Carolina.
“As exceptional scholars, teachers and mentors, Professor Carelli and Professor Waters have also been exceptional advocates for women in the sciences,” said Karen M. Gil, dean of the College. “I am confident they will make important new contributions to enhance the advancement of women scientists on our campus in their roles as WOWS Scholars.”
Carelli, the Stephen B. Baxter Distinguished Professor of Psychology, specializes in behavioral neuroscience, neurobiology and neurochemistry, and directs the Behavioral Neuroscience Program. Her research and teaching explore why cocaine and other powerful drugs are so addictive. She has mentored many undergraduates, graduate students and post-doctoral fellows, including women who seek her advice on the challenges and opportunities facing women in science careers. She also has served on university committees to enhance the recruitment and retention process for female scientists.
Waters, professor of chemistry, specializes in bioorganic chemistry and molecular recognition. Her interdisciplinary research has potential applications in drug delivery, protein design and bio-sensing. She also has mentored women at the undergraduate, graduate and postdoctoral level and has worked to involve more female colleagues in science lecture series and conference presentations. She also has enhanced the process for recruiting women faculty through her service on numerous search committees.
The WOWS Program was launched in 2007. It supports WOWS Scholars and their activities, including guest lecture series, educational programs and involvement in the recruitment, retention and professional development of women in the sciences.
