“Embracing science has allowed me to experience continuous growth and improvement every day”
Welcome to the start of our new series #WomeninScience! In this editorial, we will hear from the female scientific staff working on nanoSCAN, telling us about their roles in the project, what inspires them about their work and their experiences as a woman in science.
Meet our first guest, Petra Paie’, assistant professor at Politecnico di Milano.
Please introduce yourself and tell us more about your background.
Hi, I’m Petra! After a master in physics engineering at Politecnico di Milano (POLIMI) and a PhD in physics at the same institute, I worked as a fixed term researcher at CNR (the National Research Council of Italy). After a short-term fellowship at the University of Tokyo, I am currently working as an assistant professor at Politecnico di Milano.
During my career, I have had the opportunity to gain competences in the use of femtosecond lasers for microstructuring glass substrates. I have applied this know-how to develop integrated chips for biological and biophotonic applications, triggered by the advantages that device miniaturization offers, such as ease of use, portability, robustness, and performance stability. All aspects that can potentially favor the widespread use of advanced technologies around the globe.
How did you find out what your path was after school?
I did enjoy several subjects at school, thus, the University’s choice was not straightforward in my case. Although I still occasionally ponder the consequences of alternative choices, I am genuinely content with the path life has led me on. Embracing science, which was not the easy choice, has allowed me to experience continuous growth and improvement with each passing day. Furthermore, this choice has allowed me to travel, study and work around the world, from Los Angeles to Tokyo, as science is intrinsically an international field!
Choosing science has allowed me to travel, study and work around the world, from Los Angeles to Tokyo, as science is intrinsically an international field!
What is it that makes your job special for you?
I feel lucky to have a job that I deeply enjoy. Doing research is fun and definitely not a repetitive activity (at least in my experience), as each day offers new challenges and opportunities of learning new things. Sometimes it can be tough but it is also extremely gratifying once you see the results of your work. In addition, by working in a team as I do, you have the opportunity to learn from your colleagues and also to share your expertise in a continuous process of exchanging competences. Plus, I have the opportunity to teach physics to students, which I consider an extremely rewarding activity (though not a simple one!).
What would you recommend young talents who want to step into tech/working life?
When you first step into this world, do not feel afraid by the challenges that you may face. Resolution in achieving your goals is fundamental.
What do you think is needed to get more young women interested in science?
More role models, encouragement and support from teachers, family and friends and a non-chauvinist attitude from society in general. The road is still long, but I am very happy to appreciate that in my reality the number of female students has rapidly increased throughout the years!
The road is still long, but I am very happy that in my reality the number of female students has rapidly increased throughout the years!
Your advice for women and girls in science:
Believe in yourself and commit to your goals. Be prepared for it to be challenging, but do not let that discourage you from following your goals.
Thank you for the interview, Petra!
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