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Barbie creates doll of vaccine scientist

Professor Dame Sarah Gilbert with her Barbie 'replica'


Barbie maker Mattel has produced a doll of one of the scientists who helped create the Oxford COVID-19 vaccine in the hope of inspiring girls to follow careers in science, technology, engineering or maths.

Professor Dame Sarah Gilbert is the humble scientist who has been honoured as a 'Barbie Role Model' for her work as the project leader in the creation of the COVID-19 vaccine at the University of Oxford.

According to Sky News Dame Sarah said she found the creation "very strange" at first - but she hoped it would inspire children. She said her wish is "that my doll will show children careers they may not be aware of, like a vaccinologist."

Professor Gilbert was recognised with a damehood in the Queen's Birthday Honours.

Her Barbie is one of five to honour women working in science, technology, engineering and maths.