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Researching the future: Girls experience science and technology on campus
With a total of 81 participants, this year's Girls'Day at the GSI Helmholtz Centre for Heavy Ion Research and FAIR in Darmstadt set a new participation record. The girls, aged between ten and 17, gained exciting insights into the daily work routine at an international research center. The aim of this nationwide event is to inspire female students to pursue careers in science and technology, fields in which women are currently underrepresented.
The event was organized by the Press and Public Relations Department, supported by numerous specialist departments and the Administrative Director, Dr. Katharina Stummeyer, who personally welcomed the participants. During a tour, the students visited, among other things, the Experimental Storage Ring (ESR), the Medical Research area, and the HADES large detector. A view of the FAIR construction site from the observation platform was also part of the program.
Practical insights into research and technology
In small groups, the girls explored various career fields on campus – from materials research and biophysics to technical areas such as electronics, vacuum technology, cryogenics, and detector construction. They also had the opportunity to try out tasks in the workshops and laboratories and create small souvenirs. Another highlight was the documentation of Girls' Day by a group of participants together with the PR team.
“We want to inspire the girls with the diversity of career paths and the research work at our location,” emphasized Dr. Katharina Stummeyer. “Perhaps we will see some of them again in the future as interns, working students, or even doctoral candidates.”
Carola Pomplun, physicist and Girls'Day organizer at GSI/FAIR, was also pleased: "The great response confirms our concept. The direct contact with experts and the practical experience make the event particularly valuable for the girls."
Background: Girls'Day at GSI and FAIR
Girls'Day is a nationwide event where companies, universities, and research institutions open their doors to female students from grade 5 onwards. GSI and FAIR have participated regularly for many years. The aim is to spark young women's interest in STEM careers and degree programs at an early age.
Further information can be found at: www.gsi.de
(DARMSTADT – RED/GSI)
Featured image: Girls'Day: 81 participants explore GSI/FAIR. Photo: M. Kriegel
