Female power at Fraunhofer IOF

We have a lot of great women at the institute. They make groundbreaking inventions, lead innovative scientific teams, regulate the financial flows of the house and, as vice captain, keep the institute on course even when the waves are strong.

Hereby we highlight some of them to show how formative and enriching their work and dedication to photonics is. Because one thing is clear, if you want to get more female researchers excited about optics and physics, you need strong role models that future generations can look to for guidance.

And that's who they are:

How can we get more women interested in research involving light? What modern working practices appeal to women in particular? What is needed to get girls interested in physics at an early age?

Fraunhofer IOF is intensively addressing these essential questions. The aim is to further develop the organization in a targeted manner and significantly increase the proportion of female scientists. A Fraunhofer Institute without strong female participation is not considered sustainable. Diversity is seen as essential for a dynamically changing research landscape.

To better understand what has inspired women in photonics in the past and what approaches can contribute to a field of research with equal opportunities, successful women in science were interviewed and their experiences and ideas evaluated:

Phd-Candidate in Quantum Imaging

You are currently writing your doctoral thesis at our institute. What exactly are you working on?

Basically, all light follows the laws of quantum mechanics. In research, however, we distinguish between light that can still behave in a 'classical' manner, such as laser light, and states of light that exhibit purely quantum mechanical characteristics that we do not encounter in everyday life.

I am working on specifically tapping into such special quantum states as a resource for new technologies. In an experimental setup, I am investigating how such states can be generated by manipulating individual light particles, for example through what is known as photon subtraction.

By specifically 'removing' photons from a light field, I fundamentally change its statistical nature. This is exciting because these states form the basis for the next generation of quantum technology: they enable more precise measurements in quantum sensing and are essential for error correction in future optical quantum computers.

What inspired you to go into science?

There wasn't one specific moment. It was more a chain of decisions, driven by curiosity and a desire for challenges. Today, I simply do what I enjoy doing.

What do you particularly like about your work here at Fraunhofer IOF?

The great international team. Scientific success today is only possible through genuine teamwork—and that thrives on different characters and perspectives.

Do you have a personal role model in science?

Not directly in physics. We need to move away from the image of the lonely male genius who saves the world at night in his quiet little room. Modern physics is high-performance team sport. Those who constantly want to distinguish themselves and measure themselves actually slow down scientific progress. My parents and my big sister laid the foundation for my path. They always encouraged my curiosity free of role clichés, so that I could develop my interests completely unbiased and freely from an early age.

In your opinion, what makes working in science particularly appealing to women?

In theory, opportunities are equal today, but in practice, the situation is different. Throughout my entire degree program, I never attended a single lecture given by a woman. You can't be what you don't see—and this lack of visibility is a structural problem, not an individual one.

What particularly annoys me is the phenomenon that men in particular constantly have to measure themselves against me—as if my competence were a challenge to their ego. It often feels as if I have to constantly 'overperform' to justify that I deserve my place. This is an exhausting way of thinking: a man is competent from the outset, while a woman has to prove her competence against resistance. We need a culture in which we put our energy into research instead of defending our status.

What are your hopes for the future of women in photonics?

That true equality will finally become a matter of course and no longer needs to be debated.

What message would you like to give to young female researchers?

Stop apologizing—for your questions, for your place in the laboratory, or for your successes! Take the space you deserve. And very importantly: allow yourself to feel anger when you see injustice—it is a legitimate driver for change.

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Systems engineer and team lead for "Photonic Quantum Systems"

You are a team lead at Fraunhofer IOF, what are you and your team currently working on?

We are developing Germany’s first photonics-based quantum computer as part of the PhoQuant project. The goal is to build a system capable of solving specific sampling problems that cannot be computed by currently available supercomputers. It is an exciting step toward demonstrating the practical advantages of quantum technologies.

What inspired you to pursue a career in science?

I give much of the credit to my father. He was a science teacher and introduced us to scientific concepts at home even before we encountered them in school. That early exposure sparked my curiosity about understanding nature in greater depth. Later, I was fortunate to have inspiring teachers and professors throughout school and university who continually encouraged and supported my passion for science.

What do you particularly like about your work at Fraunhofer IOF?

Professionally, I value that the projects at Fraunhofer IOF focus strongly on real-world applications. It is rewarding to see how research can directly contribute to practical solutions. Culturally, it is also enriching to work with colleagues from around the world who bring diverse perspectives and expertise, creating a dynamic and collaborative environment.

Do you have a personal role model in science?

Yes, Kalpana Chawla. She was an aerospace engineer and astronaut who flew on the Space Shuttle Columbia and I grew up listening to stories about her achievements.

In your opinion, what makes working in science special for women?

Equality is essential in every sector. As more women actively participate in science, the ecosystem becomes more productive, creative and effective. Being part of such diverse and collaborative teams makes the work especially meaningful and fulfilling.

What are your hopes for the future of women in photonics?

I see a bright future. I hope women continue to receive equal opportunities to contribute at all levels. When talent is supported equally, it leads to a more balanced, innovative and satisfied society.

What message would you like to give to young female researchers?

Life is not always fair, accept that reality and stand up for your rights when necessary. Believe in yourselves. With determination and self-confidence, you can truly achieve anything.

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Scientist in the "Photonic Quantum System" Department 

You are working in the "Photonic Quantum Systems" department at our institute. What exactly are you working on there?

I am working on various topics related to quantum optics and quantum communications. Much of the work in the department is dedicated to applications in secure communications via quantum key distribution. My work focuses on engineering entanglement, controlling different properties of single photons to encode and process quantum information.

What inspired you to go into science?

I have always been a curious child. I was not the child that would disassemble the remote TV controller to see how it works. But I have always used my logic to solve problems, for example, to repair things at home when necessary. I love all kinds of puzzles. Eventually, as I grew older, I was promised that studying engineering physics would train me to become an inventor of future technology, which honestly, sounded really cool. This path has taken me around the world, giving me the opportunity to learn from other people’s ideas and experiences. I have been very lucky to find the best mentors everywhere I have been to. And finally, I found out that science is well paid in Germany and other countries, something I was not aware of when I started, and this economic security has allowed me to fully dedicate myself to this field.

What do you particularly like about your work here at Fraunhofer IOF?

I like the approach of integrating fundamental and applied science to bring innovative and scalable ideas to the market. I think the quantum department is relatively new and still establishing itself within the technological ecosystem, but we are making progress. To do so, we are combining advanced technology and extensive engineering expertise from other departments. This effort allows me to learn so much every day, not only about quantum technologies but also across a wide spectrum of optics and photonics. It is fascinating how fundamental ideas, when combined with material, light and mechanical engineering, lead to diverse and impactful applications.

Do you have a personal role model in science?

I do not have a unique role model. I admire all kinds of scientists, especially when I get to understand their clever thoughts to solve specific problems. I enjoy learning about the thought processes of others. But if I dare say, I especially admire the older generation of women in science, because I have seen how challenging it has been for women to be acknowledged and to pursue careers in science and engineering. Even today, I think it is still more difficult for women to balance career aspirations with family responsibilities. Nevertheless, I believe and already see that the mindset is changing, and so I am eternally grateful for the fights of my predecessors.

In your opinion, what makes working in science particularly appealing to women?

I don’t think there is anything particularly special. I believe that there are certain types of personality traits and mindsets that are well-suited to scientific challenges, regardless of the gender. At the same time, diversity in background and experiences is important to identify different ways of approaching problems. Therefore, I fully support the idea of including multiple nationalities and genders in the group. Or in other words, labels should not matter.

This said, I have observed that a leading woman often attracts more female colleagues than male-led groups. I wonder why this is the case. This bias already occurs with a pool of physics students that is predominantly male. I therefore wonder whether younger women would have more contact with female scientists and engineers, and whether this could also influence their choice of study.

What are your hopes for the future of women in photonics?

I wish to normalize the perception of society that women can do great physics, making it clear that they can also pursue careers in science and engineering.

What message would you like to give to young female researchers?

If you would like to try something, do it, don’t be afraid! However, remember that you don’t need to prove anything to anyone. Try to do your best, but also prioritize maintaining a healthy work-life balance.

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Marta Gilaberte Basset

Phd-Candidate in quantum imaging

Please tell us something about your current research focus at Fraunhofer IOF.

I joined the Fraunhofer IOF as a PhD student in quantum optics, more specifically in quantum imaging. I develop imaging systems with quantum light sources. These imaging systems make use of quantum correlations to offer advantages such as the possibility to use different wavelengths for detection and for illuminating the object.

Quantum imaging is a very specific field. Where did the interest for this field come from?

I would not say that I had a passion for photonics from the beginning. During my studies I did a project with a company. The job was about building lasers and I really enjoyed the photonics part.

How did you end up at the Fraunhofer IOF?

After a couple of years, I felt stuck in the jobs I had. And I felt I was too young to not learn anything new anymore. I decided to leave Spain for some experience abroad and applied for a position at Fraunhofer IOF. I already knew the Fraunhofer IOF through some joint laser projects in the past and had a contact who told me about them setting up a new group for quantum optics.

Do you have any career highlights you would like to share with us?

A great experience so far has been the building of a laser for the ExoMars Mission. Also, the rapid growth of our quantum group. In the beginning it was only me and one other colleague. But over the past four years the group has grown a lot. To see that happening so fast is cool. I was able to contribute to making that happen as we built one imaging setup that was working very well, so we could advertise it and receive more funding.

What keeps you motivated?

I would like to see my work enter the market at some point, so that people would be able to benefit from the imaging system I developed. I also would love to see some of my work being launched into space.

I believe in you! :) Do you have a wish for the future of women in photonics?

When I did my Bachelor’s in Barcelona, there were 10 women out of 50 students. There seem to be more women now, but I would like to see a 50/50 ratio. Some people say girls are not interested in technology or in science, I completely disagree.

Do you have a message for young female scientists?

Value your own opinion! Be humble but be strong and persistent. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, don’t be afraid to make mistakes.

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Nadja Felde

Deputy group leader and scientific speaker of the "Functional Surfaces and Coatings" department

What research topic have you dedicated yourself to?

In my doctoral thesis I worked on nanostructured multifunctional coatings. Later, I was also a research associate in this field.

How did you get involved with this topic and then later with Fraunhofer IOF?

I have been interested in natural sciences since elementary school. For my studies, I chose materials science rather than physics or chemistry because materials science is a good combination of all subjects. This allowed me to position myself very broadly. Already during my studies, I came to Fraunhofer IOF as a student assistant and had my first contact with optics. I was allowed to participate in various exciting projects that showed me the diversity in modern applied photonics. I liked everything so much - including the city of Jena - that I then did my doctorate in the field. After that, I worked as a research assistant and then became deputy head of the "Surface and Thin Film Characterization" group. Since 2022, I have also been a scientific speaker in the department. That means that for me it was a move away from classical science to strategy work. But I like that very much because it also gives you more responsibility.

That sounds like a pretty stringent career path. What motivates you at the moment?

I think it's great to be able to participate in the optical community, to help shape the industry and to generate new topics. Personally, I am motivated by the recognition for my performance and the appreciation of my work.
The support from my superiors has always been very important to me. You need someone who believes in you and promotes you properly.

And you certainly want to go even higher, don't you?

I would like to expand my network in the optics community and take on even more responsibility. You have to communicate such a goal in order to take off.

What do you wish for the future of women in photonics?

I would like to see us move away from a women's quota at some point. It should be a matter of course that the gender ratio is balanced, that you don't have to force it and that you don't have to point out that there are still deficits in equal opportunities in some cases. I would like to see women become more self-confident and also demand opportunities. I don't think there is a lack of professional or leadership skills. The problem is more that women don't communicate their goals or don't dare to do so because of unconscious thought patterns. We need more active promotion, more female role models, and networking opportunities to make themselves known.

Do you have a message for young female scientists?

The most important thing is to appear self-confident. You have to believe in yourself and your own expertise. This also includes accepting tasks that are challenging. Leaving your own comfort zone is an important core aspect of this. Because that's where you can grow and show that you can achieve something.

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Grucheska Rosario Rodriguez

Phd-Candidate in "Opto-mechatronical Components and Systems" department

What are you currently researching on?

I am trying to find out if any of the properties of ferroelectric material are affected by the mechanical or thermal impact during Solder Jet bumping. Such changes would influence the optical performance of the material. This is important for knowing whether we can use this technology for the assembly of specific systems.

Did you study materials science? And how did you get to work at Fraunhofer IOF?

Yes, I did my bachelor's degree in materials science at Universidad Simon Bolivar in Venezuela. I wanted to learn why materials are chosen for different applications based on what properties. For the master's degree, I specialized in ceramic science. I learned a lot about ceramics. It is as a very powerful material that is so versatile. I got into photonics through my first job here at Fraunhofer IOF.

What do you particularly enjoy about your work here at Fraunhofer IOF?

I am excited by the versatility and responsibilities I have been assigned on the research projects I work on. The institute's research fields are enormously important for shaping the future.

That is true. And together we are on it! Would you tell us what motivates you?

What drives me is my personal curiosity. I love mastering challenges and finding solutions. I am motivated by understanding why certain things work and others do not. I am driven by the desire to always understand more. I find the universe particularly exciting because we know so little about it so far.

I feel you. But back to earth: What do you wish for the future of women in photonics?

I would like to see women become more visible in photonics. With so many men in leadership positions, I sometimes feel intimidated. We need female role models with whom we can identify. They show us that women can be influential and powerful, too. It is important to have a room full of diversity, so we can see how ideas flow differently. When I feel insecure, I remind myself of what I have already accomplished and what I am capable of. That helps me keep going. There is no point in constantly comparing yourself to others. Everyone has their own learning processes and things develop for them at a different pace.

Do you have a message for young female scientists?

If you are curious about something, follow that path and take risks. Do not set limits for yourself.

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Stephanie Hesse-Ertelt

Fraunhofer Research Manager & Deputy Head of Department "Strategy, Organization, Communication", Strategic Initiatives & Business Development

Please tell us something about your area of responsibility.

I mainly acquire and coordinate large-scale interdisciplinary projects with many external partners at state, federal and EU level. I am also the Fraunhofer IOF's contact person for the Aviation & Space Alliance and hold other challenging internal institute positions.

Research manager, that sounds like a versatile job. Now you have been at our institute for several years. How did you come to Fraunhofer IOF back then?

I first studied physics at the Friedrich-Schiller-University Jena and then started my PhD at the Institute of Optics & Quantum Electronics. During my PhD, I worked on a topic at the interface of high-frequency spectroscopy, polymer, and biochemistry. In cooperation with various institutes, I also worked in areas initially unrelated to the subject and spent a period abroad in Japan. Since there was a restructuring in the institute at that time, which made a doctorate and further employment as originally planned no longer possible, I switched to organic and macromolecular chemistry via a detour. This allowed me to complete my doctorate on my chosen topic and to get to know many new aspects in the field of (bio)polymer chemistry. I then stayed in this topic area for a few years and worked as a research associate at the Polysaccharide Research Competence Center. In June 2012, I joined Fraunhofer IOF as a scientific officer. Thus, for the first time, I also came closer professionally to my interest in astronomy and optical space applications.

What did you take away for yourself from this intensive time in research?

There have been many exciting experiences in my career. There have also been moments when I thought I wasn't going anywhere. However, something great has always come out of i - like my stay in Japan, where I was able to develop not only professionally but also personally and get to know the country, its people, and culture.

What else motivates you?

My work feels like a hobby and opens up numerous possibilities. I'm motivated by the new things, the opportunities that present themselves and the possible applications. The results are simply exciting.

What are your personal goals for the future?

II am very happy with the current situation, with my role and the work in a research institute, and I am looking forward to further responsible tasks with ever new topics. If it comes up, I would like to be shot into space sometime.

An extraordinary goal - but not impossible. And what do you wish for the future of women in photonics?

I wish that more young women could get excited about science. At best, the spark ignites when they are still at school. Teachers play an important role here, because they can show young people the possibilities, provide advice and support, inspire them and strengthen their existing interest.

What message would you like to give to young female scientists?

Be courageous and interested, just keep going, a path will be found. Be open, however, to turns and detours. These can be valuable experiences.

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Julia Hengster

Scientific advisor to the institute management

What is your scope of work?

My work is partly scientific and partly organizational. Thus, I also accompany internal change processes. I support the institute's management by providing input for committee work or internal meetings as well as for external events.

What was your career path like leading up to your current job?

After studying physics, I did my doctorate in Hamburg on the topic of short pulse physics. As a member of a junior group, I did a lot of pioneering work in the lab and in experiment development. However, I did not publish that much, which is why a scientific career with a professorship was out of the question for me. Therefore, I shifted my career focus and discovered science management. I then started working in this field at Fraunhofer IOF and helped establish the Max Planck School of Photonics. This is a graduate school spread over different locations that brings together young scientists and professors in a network. The goal is to interconnect the photonics sector so that scientific issues are not only addressed locally but with more cooperation. I have been a scientific officer of the institute's management since 2021.

This vividly shows that the scientific field is not always just about research, but that there are also many other exciting areas of activity. What would you describe as your professional highlight from your career so far?

For me, that was definitely the completion of my doctorate. You work towards a goal for so long and have to maintain motivation despite many obstacles. Otherwise, it's more the small successes: building a team, fighting together for a shared goal, and seeing that the collaboration works.

What motivates you beyond that?

I like to work my way into new topics and love the variety in my work. I am also motivated by not working alone but having a team by my side. I appreciate the different approaches of others as they are very helpful for my own work.

Have you set personal goals for the future?

For us science coordinators, career paths still need to develop. Leadership positions are usually filled by scientists who have distinguished themselves through their research and publications. However, I have strongly resolved not to lose sight of my private goals. I would like to intensify running and cycling as a hobby. Personal interests should not be underestimated in the area of conflicting priorities of work and private life in order to be healthy and satisfied in the long term.

Work-life balance is a really important topic that is fortunately attracting more and more attention. And on the subject of the future of women in photonics: Do you have any wishes in this regard?

I wish that leadership roles will be filled more diversely in the future, i.e., that more women will also take on personnel responsibility.

What message do you have for young female scientists?

Hard work beats talent, when talent does not work hard. These words come from the world of sports and show that hard work can help you achieve goals regardless of your talent. Many women doubt their own abilities more than their male counterparts do. Try to find personal goals to work toward. Hard work doesn't have to be time-consuming. Focus and reflection help us do the right things and find solutions.

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Carolin Rothhardt

Head of the group Joining Technologies in the department of Precision Optical Components & Systems

What are you working on in your group?

As part of my doctorate, I have developed a new joining process for optical crystals in the department of precision engineering, which is particularly interesting for high-power laser applications. Laser crystals are firmly bonded to each other with this process. The results of my doctoral thesis are also incorporated into my current work, as we are continuing to develop the joining process in the working group.

What led you to your current field of work?

In my schooldays, I got enthusiastic about gliding. At an event, I was given the opportunity to see how the largest glider of the time was manufactured. State-of-the-art materials played an important role in this. It was extraordinary! And that was the spark that gave me the idea of studying materials science. I wanted to understand how materials work and how to specifically improve their properties.
Eventually, I started studying materials science at the Friedrich Schiller University in Jena. The degree program covered all my interests (chemistry, physics, computer science). During my studies, I started working as a student assistant at Fraunhofer IOF in the department Optical Systems. Later I did my PhD in the department of precision engineering. Since the beginning of 2022, I am now head of the group Joining Technologies in the department of Precision Optical Components and Systems.

So you were pretty clear from the start where you wanted to go. What do you count as your professional highlights?

A great experience was successfully defending my doctorate and being awarded the FSU Jena Faculty Prize for it. We also successfully completed an exciting project in 2021. It was about the development of an optical component designed for use in a scientific instrument that will fly in space in the future. Successfully building the demonstrator in an interdisciplinary team was a great experience.

Do you have a personal role model?

My role model is Marie Curie. In addition to her scientific success, she passed on her enthusiasm for science to her female students and encouraged them to pursue science.

What are your personal goals for the future?

A major goal is to have components we have made fly in space and be applied there. They can help answer important questions - about climate change, for example. Even if we only provide small components in a large overall system, this has an important function in the end.

With absolute certainty. And what do you wish for women in photonics?

I wish that equality would be lived even better, and that society's view would change. Personally, I have always had good conditions in my working environment for combining work and career. Globally, however, the conditions for women in science still need to be improved.

What message would you like to give to young female scientists?

You should always have a realistic goal in mind and pursue it persistently. Stay curious!

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