Nepali social scientist Mandira Lamichhane Dhimal has been elected a fellow of the International Science Council (ISC), one of the highest global distinctions in science. She is the first Nepali woman scientist to be elected a fellow of the council and only the second Nepali citizen to receive the distinction.

The honour recognises her outstanding contributions to scientific research, policy engagement and leadership in planetary health, climate change, gender and public health.

The ISC is an international non-profit organisation that brings together around 250 scientific bodies worldwide. Established in 2018 through the merger of the International Council for Science and the International Social Science Council, it promotes global scientific cooperation.

The council included Dhimal among its newest Fellows, recognising scientists whose work has significantly advanced science as a global public good. According to the ISC, the Fellowship is the highest distinction awarded by the council. It brings together a global network of leading scientists committed to strengthening international scientific cooperation and promoting the role of science in society.

Dhimal currently serves as research director and fellow at the Planetary Health Research Centre (PHRC) in Kathmandu. She is also a member of the Global Young Academy and has made important contributions to evidence-based policy development, climate and environmental health research, and gender-responsive approaches to sustainable development.

Her election as an ISC Fellow marks a significant achievement not only in her scientific career but also for Nepal’s growing presence in the global scientific community. The recognition is expected to further strengthen Nepal’s contribution to international research collaborations and scientific dialogue on pressing global challenges, including climate change, planetary health and sustainable development.

Following the announcement, colleagues and well-wishers congratulated Dhimal on bringing international recognition to Nepal’s scientific community and inspiring the next generation of researchers, especially women scientists.