Rowena Matthews

As the daughter of a biochemist, Rowena Matthews met more than her share of scientists. But she never thought she could become one, because most of them were men. It wasn't until college that Matthews discovered her own passion for biochemistry, and the possibility of juggling cutting-edge research with motherhood and a rich family life. Throughout her career, Matthews has explored how enzymes work within the body. Her studies have revealed the surprising and complex reactions that enzymes and vitamins can set in motion, including some that play prominent roles in human health. Rowena Matthews is a professor emeritus at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor. She was elected to the National Academy of Sciences in 2002.