Renowned Jamaica-born scientist Mercedes Richards dies

Renowned Jamaica-born scientist, professor Mercedes Tharam Richards, who once urged the Jamaican government to 'have a higher regard for science' has died. 

Richards died in the United States on February 3, leaving her husband, Donald, and two daughters. 

Up to her death, Professor Richards was professor of astronomy and astrophysics at the prestigious, Penn State University. 

Richards attended Providence Primary School, St Hugh's High and the University of the West Indies.

In 1986, she was awarded a doctor of philosophy degree in astronomy astrophysics from the University of Toronto, Canada. 

Richards received numerous awards for her research including the Musgrave gold medal in 2008.

During her acceptance speech, she reportely said science was viewed as weird and urged the Jamaican government to do more to improve the perception of the area. 

A memorial service for Richards will be held on Saturday in Pennsylvannia.