Remembering Egypt's Nuclear Scientist Samira Moussa

Today (August 8) marks the death anniversary of Egypt's Nuclear Scientist Samira Moussa.

In the first half of the 20th century, during the era of two world wars and significant advancements in science and technology, Moussa, an Egyptian nuclear scientist, dedicated her life to promoting the peaceful use of nuclear energy.

Born in Gharbia on March 3, 1917, Moussa experienced the loss of her mother to cancer at a young age.

She later moved to Cairo with her father, completed her education, and graduated from Cairo University with a BSc in Radiology with First Class Honors in 1939. Notably, she became the first woman to work and hold a post at Cairo University and the first to obtain a PhD in Atomic Radiation.

In the mid-1940s, Moussa went to the UK to finish her PhD and made significant contributions to nuclear science.

She developed an equation for breaking the atoms of inexpensive metals like copper, which had a lasting impact on medical applications of nuclear technology, making X-rays more affordable.

Moussa aimed to make nuclear treatments for cancer more accessible and affordable, advocating for its widespread availability. Additionally, she organized the Atomic Energy for Peace Conference, sparked by her deep concerns about atomic weapons. 

This ultimately laid the groundwork for organizations promoting peaceful uses of nuclear energy and nuclear disarmament.

In the 1950s, Moussa was invited to the United States on a Fulbright scholarship in recognition of her pioneering work in atomic research.

Her visit to the country's secret nuclear facilities was controversial, and she declined opportunities to work and live in the US.

Tragically, she died in a car crash at the age of 35 while on her way to a nuclear facility she had been invited to. Despite her untimely death, Moussa's contributions to promoting health technology and advocating for the peaceful use of nuclear energy have left a lasting impact on the world.