Joan Slonczewski (1956–)
Joan Slonczewski is an American microbiologist and science fiction author, particularly known for her ecological and feminist science fiction novels that often explore themes of biotechnology, alien societies, and environmental ethics. Her work frequently features strong female protagonists and intricate world-building, drawing heavily from her scientific background to create biologically plausible and thought-provoking narratives. She is a professor of microbiology at Kenyon College, where she also co-edited the college's literary magazine.