Originally, I was unmotivated to work in optics. During my studies, I considered work in the optics lab just plain boring — just tightening a lot of screws to a table. But my desire to unlock the mysteries of our universe motivated me to pursue hardware development for astronomical applications, and it was then that I realized how exciting and diverse the field of optics is.

Now, I’m a mechanic, astronomer, programmer, and hardware developer, and I love it. As a PhD candidate at the University of Erlangen, my research focuses on photon correlations from distant stars. One of my greatest accomplishments has been the development of a time-to-digital converter with sub-10ps timing resolution and a large active area single-photon detector. Both innovations are now available on the market as commercial products.

The most significant challenge I have faced was entering a male-dominated field and navigating the accompanying biases. I found it difficult to express my opinions in discussions where I frequently felt outnumbered. However, I was fortunate to have strong support from my family, friends, and fellow female PhD students. By actively engaging in discussions and supporting each other, we built our confidence together.

Male-only groups may not fully realize the diversity of perspectives they are missing out on. However, the reward of making the field more welcoming for women is invaluable. By creating a supportive environment — even if I only inspire one female student to see the excitement in optics — I consider that a significant achievement. Each step we take to encourage women not only enriches our research but also strengthens the entire scientific community. Together, we can create a culture where women thrive and contribute their individual insights, ultimately advancing the field for everyone.

My advice for young girls and women considering a career in STEM: Stay strong in pursuing your dreams and never let others bring you down. Your feelings and experiences are valid, and it’s important to cultivate the strength to push back against negativity. Seek out supportive networks and surround yourself with those who uplift and encourage you. This camaraderie is vital for navigating the challenges you may face and reinforcing your belief in your abilities.

Verena Leopold
Doctoral Researcher/PhD Student, Friedrich-Alexander University of Erlangen-Nuremberg
Born in Germany / Resides in Germany
Educational Background: BS and MS in Physics with integrated doctoral program, Friedrich-Alexander University of Erlangen-Nurenberg, Germany