The IHP – Leibniz Institute for Innovative Microelectronics celebrated the "International Day of Women and Girls in Science" on February 11 with lectures, lab tours and artistic impulses. The event brought together schoolgirls, researchers and a scientifically interested audience and set an example for equal opportunities and the visibility of women in scientific careers.
At the start, schoolgirls were given practical insights into fields of work and training opportunities at the IHP. During guided tours of laboratories and the clean room, they were able to talk to female scientists and find out 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, the focus was on cutting-edge research. As part of an institute colloquium, Prof. Luisa Torsi spoke about "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 recognize molecules in biological samples, opening up new perspectives for fast and cost-effective diagnostics.
Luisa Torsi is one of the most internationally renowned scientists in the fields of bioelectronics, molecular sensing and organic electronics. She is Professor of Chemistry at the Aldo Moro University of Bari and author of numerous high-ranking publications, holds several international patents and is one of the most influential researchers in her field with tens of thousands of citations.
A short keynote speech on the topic of "Women in Management" by Mirtha Valenzuela Vera, Managing Director of IHP Solutions GmbH, gave the visitors insights into the role of female CEOs. Using selected examples, she highlighted the structural challenges and opportunities for women at the top of companies.
Afterwards, Anna Herfurth, Head of Human Resources, introduced the institute and presented the "Women in Science" video series, which highlights female researchers at IHP and their different life and career paths.
The physicist, author and science communicator Gabriella Greison set an impressive cultural accent with her theatrical monologue "Einstein & Me".
In it, the scientist, also known as the "rock star of physics", described the story of Mileva Marić, physicist and first wife of Albert Einstein, from her perspective and drew attention to scientific achievements, lack of recognition and structural barriers for women. Topics that have lost none of their topicality to this day.
The afternoon sessions were held in English. Afterwards, many guests took the opportunity for personal exchange and networking.
The event was made possible by the IHP and IHP Solutions GmbH.