When she received her degree in Physics in 1962, she was one of just two female students in her class at the University of Zaragoza, but undeterredly went on to defend her thesis in 1966, and eventually to become the first female associate professor of physics in Spain. Today she is considered an international leader in the Optics community. She has been a trailblazer, role model and mentor for young scientists throughout her career and a long-time supporter of ICFO and its mission. Many national and international awards recognize her scientific accomplishments, teaching, leadership and support for women in STEM, including an ICFO Fellowship for women in her name.