Science Goddess

TP - That nickname not only evokes feminine beauty but also embodies a radiant, polished gem that shines through time. It represents a harmonious blend of artistic spirit, a soul deeply immersed in dance, passionate about music, embracing literary dreams, and possessing a sharp scientific intellect.

Associate Professor Tran Ngoc Mai was awarded the title of Associate Professor at the youngest age in 2024, at the age of 33. She has established her position in the academic world with more than 30 valuable scientific publications revolving around the fields of investment, global trade, and sustainable economic development.

The profession chose me.

Associate Professor Dr. Tran Ngoc Mai receives the Outstanding Young Face of Hanoi Award 2024. Photo: Xuan Tung

"Becoming a scientist was a career that… chose me. It was quite a surprise," Mai said with a soft smile, her eyes distant as she looked back on her journey, full of unexpected turns.

My first impression of her was her freshness and the energy radiating from her bright eyes. Few would guess that she was once a frail little girl, so weak that she was a constant source of worry for her entire family.

During her high school years, a serious accident required her to undergo surgery for a brain hematoma. This major event not only worried her family but also instilled in her doubts about the future, especially her ability to pursue a demanding and persistent career in science.

The young female associate professor shared her insights and inspired the students.

"Back then, I only dreamed of lofty ideals like becoming a writer, poet, or musician," she recalled. Neither her family nor she herself ever imagined that one day she would embark on a scientific career.

After graduating with a Bachelor of Business Administration degree, specializing in International Business, from the University of Nebraska (USA), Mai decided to return to Vietnam to work as a lecturer. In the early years, she didn't like doing research because she lacked the patience to sit in one place and the focus and perseverance to do one thing.

But in the process of striving to fulfill her duties, from master's to doctoral studies, Mai suddenly realized that scientific research had transformed her without her even noticing. It was a positive transformation, as Mai could diligently research for hours on end with a clear mind.

"This is an incredibly wonderful experience for me, becoming someone I never thought I could be. And I've decided to pursue a career in science," she said happily, having found her calling in academia.

Solutions from green FDI flows

Associate Professor Dr. Tran Ngoc Mai's main research focuses on international investment, international trade, business behavior management and practices, and sustainable economic development.

One notable achievement is the series of scientific publications related to sustainable development through corporate social responsibility, CO2 emission reduction, and the application of green logistics.

Research has demonstrated a strong positive correlation between FDI inflows and renewable energy development. The study has shown that GDP and CO2 emissions, if left unchecked, will negatively impact clean energy development and economic sustainability.

Conversely, when effectively managed, green FDI can become a driving force for digital transformation, improve supply chain efficiency, and support Vietnam's sustainable development goals.

Research by young scientists shows that attracting and effectively deploying FDI, especially green FDI, plays a key role in promoting renewable energy and reducing CO2 emissions.

Associate Professor Tran Ngoc Mai's journey is not the story of a "fair lady" with a paved path, but rather a vivid testament to resilience, self-improvement, and tireless perseverance. She has shown that all limits can be broken when people dare to listen to themselves and keep moving forward.

Studies also emphasize that adopting green logistics models not only brings environmental benefits but also increases the competitive advantage of businesses in the international market.

The publications of the young associate professor have become a solid scientific basis for businesses and managers in integrating economic development goals and environmental protection, providing methodological suggestions for further research on green logistics.

In her basic research, Mai always believed that even theoretical research could be applied or disseminated to benefit the community.

The art of balance

"As a woman, why not settle for being a lecturer, teaching classes every day, and then going home in the evening to cook and take care of the family?" - Mai wondered to herself. It seemed that at times she also felt weary from her persistent journey in science, juggling many responsibilities.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Tran Ngoc Mai - Photo: Hoang Manh Thang

But it was in those moments that she thought, if life lacked progress, it would be a dull life. When discussing societal gender stereotypes, the associate professor asserted that she herself is the one who decides whether or not she will be affected by those stereotypes.

"In the study, women   "She possesses subtlety, attention to detail, and mental resilience, making her very careful, meticulous, and highly adaptable. I've realized that balancing many responsibilities and duties in life has molded her into a woman who can handle pressure and maintain energy better," she shared.

Scientific research can sometimes be boring. Therefore, "endurance" lies not only in the effort to pursue a new discovery, but also in persevering with repetitive, sometimes monotonous and dry tasks.

That nickname not only evokes feminine beauty but also embodies a radiant, polished gem that shines through time. It represents a harmonious blend of artistic spirit, a soul deeply immersed in dance, passionate about music , embracing literary dreams, and possessing a sharp scientific intellect.

"Being 'interrupted' in their pursuit of their roles as wives and mothers allows them to take breaks to listen to themselves and improve. When they return, they feel empowered to move forward faster," Mai confided.

Upon receiving the title of youngest female Associate Professor in 2024, Mai had sleepless nights, agonizing over the fear that she wouldn't be able to bear the expectations that society was placing on her shoulders…

The title of youngest Associate Professor might initially seem like a heavy burden, but for Mai, it's also a reminder of her responsibilities and an invitation to continue her journey of conquering new heights.

Drawing on her experiences and reflections, she chooses to inspire with a gentle yet powerful message: "Break free from your own limitations so you can soar to new heights!"

Source: https://tienphong.vn/ngoc-nu-khoa-hoc-post1737043.tpo