Due to her unstoppable drive, Marie Curie was able to break various barriers of prejudice and discrimination at the turn of the 20th century Europe. She became the first woman to win the Nobel Prize, and the only person ever to win it twice in two different fields. Today, Marie Curie is an inspiration for women and scientists, and radioactivity has advanced energy, weaponry and healthcare.

Portrait of Marie Curie and daughter Irene. Paris, 1927. Photographer: Anonymous. Credit: Wellcome Collection.