Dr. Rey, who was born in Mexico, is a member of the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). She has received numerous prestigious honors, including the 2014 NIST Presidential Early Career Award and the Blavatnik National Young Scientists Award in 2019. In 2023, she was elected to the National Academy of Sciences and in 2021, she was named one of TIME's "100 Most Influential People."
Dr. Rey received her undergraduate degree from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and her Ph.D. from Harvard University. Her research focuses on using ultra-cold atoms to explore fundamental questions in quantum physics and to develop new technologies. She has made significant contributions to the field, including the first experimental realization of a Bose-Einstein condensate and the development of a new method for measuring atomic properties.
Dr. Rey is a passionate advocate for science education and outreach, particularly for underrepresented groups in the scientific community. She co-founded the program "Letter from a Scientist," which connects young people with working scientists to inspire them to pursue careers in science. Dr. Rey also serves on various advisory boards and committees focused on promoting diversity and inclusion in STEM fields.
In 2014, she was awarded the NIST Presidential Early Career Award for her groundbreaking work in atomic physics. This award recognizes scientists and engineers who demonstrate "the potential to become leaders in science and technology." Dr. Rey's research has been featured in numerous publications, including Scientific American, The New York Times, and Nature.
Dr. Rey's achievements are a testament to her dedication and passion for scientific exploration. Her work has not only contributed to our understanding of the universe but also serves as an inspiration for future generations of scientists and engineers.