My life has been — and continues to be — full of role models, each one contributing to the scientist and person that I am today. My mother drove me to the library and planetarium, while my father supported my higher education. My supervisor, Jean-Claude Diels, and female colleagues welcomed and inspired me. My students remind me to approach my work with excitement and wonder, and my colleagues uplift me.
In my current role, I use ultrafast optics techniques to characterize the response of photodiodes and develop methods for high-precision radio-frequency measurement. I am also responsible for characterizing plasma generated with radio frequency in semiconductor manufacturing. Additionally, I contribute to organizational strategy and science communication, ensuring alignment with overall institutional goals while fostering a culture of innovation.
My greatest achievement has been conducting ultrafast spectroscopy of “air lasing,” which occurs due to ultrashort high-intensity laser propagation in air, known as light filaments. The results were unpredictable and provided a wealth of information from the acquired spectra. I especially valued the opportunity to conduct research on a topic close to my heart while on maternity leave. The process of shedding light on the complex interplay of optics, propagation, molecular response, and high-field ionization was both intellectually rewarding and enjoyable. I also deeply appreciated the conversations I had with colleagues in the field, as we worked together to unravel this fascinating phenomenon.
The biggest challenge I have faced in my career was embracing my dual roles as a scientist and a single mother. Not being able to travel and present at conferences limited my visibility and opportunities for collaboration. Despite these challenges, I have learned to find alternative ways to stay connected with the scientific community, leveraging virtual platforms and seeking local opportunities for collaboration and visibility.
It’s crucial to support other women and believe in the power of community. Having a network of strong, supportive colleagues is invaluable, and we can all help each other rise. Don’t be afraid to connect with others and build meaningful relationships that can support and inspire you throughout your career.
Ladan Arissian
Physicist, Communications Technology Laboratory; RF Technology Division / Spectrum Technology and Research Division, National Institute of Standards and Technology
Born in Iran / Resides in United States
Educational Background: BS in Applied Physics, Sharif University of Technology, Iran; MS in Nuclear Engineering, AZAD University, Iran; MS in Physics, Shahid Beheshti University, Iran; PhD in Optical Science in Engineering, University of New Mexico, United States
