2021 GMiS Luminary Honorees

With a Ph.D. in materials science with a multidisciplinary focus of biomaterials, cell biology and mechanics from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, Dr. María López García brings her unique capability to bridge the world of materials and life sciences — so vital to the development of personal care consumer products — to Kimberly-Clark.

At the company, Dr. López García has led important research in controlled release of actives to aging skin as well as through cervical mucus for vaginal wellness in aging women.

She has also has led research in fluid distribution, super absorbent materials, and menses-specific absorbent materials, making important contributions to product development for the company’s multiple feminine hygiene brands.

Growing up in Puerto Rico, Dr. López García was lucky enough to have a father who was a Manager at Hewlett Packard with Electrical Engineering training as a role model.

Introducing his daughter to female engineers inspired her to study chemical engineering at the University of Puerto Rico, Mayagüez and discover her interest in materials science.

With multiple patents and publications to her credit, Dr. López García activities outside of work are equally impressive. She spent considerable time on the board to the innovative Appleton Bilingual School and has been a leader within the Latin American Network for Diversity (LAND).