French Award Recognizes UNAM Scientist for Energy Research

Karla María Muñoz Páez, a researcher at UNAM’s Institute of Engineering at the Juriquilla campus, has been awarded the 2024 Promising Women in Energy Transition Award for her contributions to renewable energy research.

This prestigious honor, sponsored by the French Embassy in Mexico, ENGIE, and the French Institute of Latin America (IFAL), recognizes innovative projects that promote sustainable energy solutions. The award specifically supports young female researchers with less than a decade of professional experience, highlighting their early-career impact in the energy sector.

Muñoz Páez’s research focuses on transforming organic waste into biomethane through biogas processing. Her approach enhances biogas by removing CO₂ and raising its methane content to levels suitable for natural gas infrastructure. Additionally, she explores the use of microorganisms while developing an innovative method for generating hydrogen through the anaerobic oxidation of metallic waste—a novel approach that could significantly impact the energy sector.

Her ultimate goal is to integrate biomethane into existing natural gas systems, contributing to a more efficient and sustainable energy transition. Her work exemplifies how science and technology can provide viable solutions to today’s energy challenges.

The award includes a week-long research visit to France from February 8 to 16, coinciding with the International Day of Women and Girls in Science on February 11. During this trip, Muñoz Páez will take part in academic and professional exchanges in an international environment.