IHP – Leibniz Institute for High Performance Microelectronics celebrated International Day of Women and Girls in Science on the 11th of February with lectures, laboratory tours and creative presentations. The event brought schoolgirls, researchers and an audience interested in science together and sent a strong message about equal opportunities and the visibility of women in scientific careers.
To kick things off, the students were given practical insights into the fields of work and vocational training opportunities at IHP. During tours of laboratories and the clean room, they talked to female scientists and learned about career prospects in microelectronics. A science slam by IHP group leader Costanza Manganelli conveyed research topics in a vivid way and invited discussion.
In the afternoon, cutting-edge research took centre stage. As part of an institute colloquium, Professor Luisa Torsi spoke on “Single-Molecule with a Large Surface (SiMoLS): A Paradigm Shift in Ultra-Sensitive Label-Free Biosensing”. She presented a novel approach to single-molecule detection that can be used to identify molecules in biological samples, opening up new perspectives for rapid and cost-effective diagnostics.
Luisa Torsi is one of the most internationally renowned scientists in the fields of bioelectronics, molecular sensor technology and organic electronics. She is a professor of chemistry at the University of Bari Aldo Moro and author of numerous high-profile publications. She holds several international patents and, with tens of thousands of citations, is one of the most influential researchers in her field.
During her stay at IHP, Luisa Torsi also received some special news: she was informed at that moment that she was one of the scientists honoured by UNESCO as part of its “Women in Science” programme.
In a short keynote speech on the topic of “Women in Management” by Mirtha Valenzuela Vera, CEO of IHP Solutions GmbH, visitors were given insights into the role of female CEOs. Using selected examples, she highlighted the structural challenges and opportunities faced by women at the top of companies.
Afterwards, Anna Herfurth, Head of Human Resources, introduced the institute and presented the video series “Women in Science” which showcases female researchers at IHP and their diverse life and career paths.
Physicist, author and science communicator Gabriella Greison made an impressive cultural contribution with her theatrical monologue “Einstein & Me”. In it, the scientist, also known as the “rock star of physics”, told the story of Mileva Marić, physicist and Albert Einstein’s first wife, from her perspective, drawing attention to scientific achievements, lack of recognition and structural barriers for women. Issues that remain as relevant today as ever.
The afternoon events were held in English. Afterwards, many guests took the opportunity to engage in personal discussions and networking.
The event was made possible by IHP and IHP Solutions GmbH.
