Clarisse Falanga is a renowned Congolese scientist, educator, and advocate for women in STEM, celebrated for her pioneering contributions to molecular biology and biotechnology. Based in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo, she is an Assistant Professor in the Faculty of Sciences at the University of Kinshasa and collaborates with the Kinshasa General Commissariat for Atomic Energy on cutting-edge research in plant improvement and mutation breeding. Dr. Falanga’s inventive spirit is exemplified by her creation of “Miravella Hair Cream” and her establishment of nonprofits such as Women in STEM and Sciences & Kids, which empower women and youth to pursue careers in science and technology.
Her exceptional achievements have earned her numerous accolades, including the “Woman of the Year Lifetime Achievement Award” at the African Achievement Awards and recognition from UNESCO-DRC and UN Women DRC. As a member of the Women Leaders Movement and a frequent panelist at summits, she continues to inspire and mentor the next generation of innovators while advancing sustainable development and scientific progress in the DRC and beyond.
Professional Biography of Clarisse Falanga
Dr. Clarisse Falanga is a distinguished Congolese scientist, innovator, and advocate for women in STEM, recognized globally for her groundbreaking contributions to molecular biology and biotechnology. Based in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), she serves as an Assistant Professor in the Faculty of Sciences, Department of Biology, at the University of Kinshasa, specializing in molecular biology. Her multifaceted expertise spans plant improvement, plant breeding, and induced mutations, underscoring her pivotal role in advancing scientific research in Africa.
Academic and Professional Achievements
Dr. Falanga collaborates extensively with the Department of Biotechnology and Molecular Biology at the Kinshasa General Commissariat for Atomic Energy (CGEA/CREN-K), where her work focuses on harnessing biotechnology to enhance agricultural productivity and sustainability. Her dedication to research has made significant strides in plant mutation breeding, a field critical to addressing food security challenges in the region.
In addition to her academic roles, Dr. Falanga is a Senior Assistant in Molecular Biology at the Sciences Faculty, University of Kinshasa. She is also an Associate Researcher at CGEA/CREN-K, where her innovative research has cemented her reputation as a leading scientist in her field.
