Spotlight on Top 100 Global Innovators – A 3M Scientist’s Journey from Diamond-Like Coatings to Diapers

Every year, Clarivate publishes a list of the Top 100 Global Innovators, companies and organizations that sit at the very top of the global innovation ecosystem, with the most consistent over-the-bar performance in innovation. Since the list began in 2012, only 19 companies can claim the distinction of being recognized continuously, year after year. One such company is 3M – the iconic global manufacturer and distributor well known for its cutting-edge scientific research and invention of groundbreaking products such as Post-it ® Notes, Scotchgard ™ Fabric Protector, and Thinsulate™ Insulation. In our latest episode of Ideas to Innovation Season 2, we’ll learn how 3M is constantly pushing the boundaries of what’s possible with science and innovation, where the power of science and the spark of human ingenuity come together in perfect harmony.

Our podcast guest is a corporate scientist, accomplished engineer, and innovator who combines her technical expertise and creativity with her love of science. Dr. Jayshree Seth  is celebrating her 30^th anniversary at 3M; she started her career with the company in 1993. Today, as Chief Science Advocate for 3M, with 77 patents to her name, she works with other engineers and scientists to break down complex problems and find solutions that stick. In this discussion, Jayshree recalls how her doctoral research involved working on hard, diamond-like coatings that could be used on tools to make them more durable.  She also reveals the idea behind one of her earliest creations, a fastener with a rounded corner tape tab designed to keep the diapers of wiggly babies safe, comfortable, and secure.  She is author of the book, The Heart of Science – Engineering Footprints, Fingerprints, & Imprints, published by the Society of Women Engineers, and all the sales proceeds go to a scholarship for underrepresented minority women in STEM. She is a sought-after speaker globally on a multitude of topics such as innovation, leadership, and STEM advocacy and has been featured in local, national, and international media.