Natalia K. Nikolova, a Professor at McMaster University, has made outstanding contributions to the global advancement of the theory and applications of microwave engineering. Most notably, her pioneering work on response sensitivity analysis enabled drastic acceleration of the design optimization of high-frequency structures in the framework of electromagnetic simulation software. Her innovations in microwave imaging and detection enabled applications in medical diagnostics and security systems, which are expected to bring important benefits to our society in the near future. Prof. Nikolova has a long record of outstanding service in promoting the Canadian engineering profession at home and abroad as well as promoting the engineering profession among women.