Researching future: Girls experience science and technology on campus
With a total of 81 participants, this year's Girls'Day at the GSI Helmholtzzentrum for Heavy Iion Research and Fair in Darmstadt recorded a new participation record. The girls between the ages of ten and 17 received exciting insights into everyday work at an international research center. The aim of the nationwide day of action is to inspire pupils for professional fields in science and technology in which only a few women have been represented so far.
The event was organized by the Department of Press and Public Relations, supported by numerous specialist departments and the administrative managing director Dr. Katharina Stummeyer, who personally welcomed the participants. During a tour, the students visited the ESR experimental memory, the area of medical research and the large detector Hades. A look from the viewing platform to the fair construction site was also part of the program.
Practical insights into research and technology
In small groups, the girls explored various professional fields on campus - from material research to biophysics to technical areas such as electronics, vacuum technology, cryogenics or detector construction. In addition, they were able to try out tasks in the workshops and laboratories themselves and make small souvenirs. Another highlight was the documentation of the Girls'Day by a group of participants together with the PR team.
"We want to inspire the girls for the diversity of job profiles and the research work at our location," emphasized Dr. Katharina Stummeyer. "Perhaps we will see some of them again in the future as interns, workers or even as a promotional woman."
Carola Pomplun, physicist and Girls'Day organizer at GSI/Fair, was also satisfied: "The great response confirms our concept. Direct contact with specialists and practical trying out make the experience particularly valuable for the girls."
Background: Girls'Day at GSI and Fair
Girls'Day is a nationwide day of action in which companies, universities and research institutions open their doors for schoolchildren from class 5. GSI and Fair have been participating regularly for many years. The aim is to interest young women at an early stage in scientific-technical professions and courses.
Further information at: www.gsi.de
(Darmstadt - red/gsi)
Contribution picture: Girls'Day: Explore 81 participants GSI/Fair. Photo: M. Kriegel
