Monique Deon is a scientist whose work bridges the fields of atomic science and health care. She explores how nanoparticle properties influence their ability to penetrate the skin’s layers. Her research has far-reaching implications, from evaluating cosmetic safety to advancing nanomedicine.

Originally from Passo Fundo in Brazil’s Rio Grande do Sul, Deon taught herself to read, captivated by the secrets unlocked through decoding language. In college, she discovered another powerful language: the world of matter. She earned her chemistry degree from the University of Passo Fundo and subsequently completed her master’s and doctoral degrees in chemistry at the Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul. She also completed doctoral studies at the École Nationale Supérieure de Chimie de Montpellier in France. She now dedicates her career to research and teaching at UFCSPA.

Deon enjoys practical challenges—puzzles are a favorite—and she brings the same systematic, step-by-step approach from her lab to her kitchen. She only tackles recipes with clear protocols.