UNESCO joins with the rest of the world’s scientific community to pay tribute to the Iranian mathematician Maryam Mirzakhani, who died on Saturday at the age of 40. Mirzakhani was the first woman to have received the prestigious Fields Medal in mathematics. She was awarded the medal in 2014, an honor that is widely acknowledged as the Noble Prize of mathematics.

Mirzakhani’s pioneering work was reshaping the field of mathematics, in particular the study of geometry. She was also an inspiration to young women everywhere and an immense source of encouragement for all those who intend to pursue a career in basic sciences or mathematics. May her memory also serve to encourage young women to break through persistent and unfounded stereotypes when it comes to young girls pursuing careers in math or science.

UNESCO extends its condolences to her family and to the people of Iran.