ABOUT ATOM*INNEN
atom*innen is an interactive platform that aims to provide a central and international contact point for women and gender minorities in quantum science. The name "atom*innen" was chosen not only because "atom" is associated with quantum concepts, but also because "*innen" in German is meant to include all genders, symbolizing our commitment to inclusivity. We recognize that diverse teams drive innovation, creativity and productivity. With our platform we want to contribute to the many initiatives addressing gender issues in physics and create a dynamic space for women and gender minorities to share their experiences, seek advice, and collaborate.
While gender diversity seems to have gained ground – Austria has indeed the highest rise in the share of female professors in the EU (Gender Equality in Science and Research in Austria, Federal Ministry Republic of Austria, 2018) – there is still a long way to go to reach gender equality, especially when it comes to STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics). In 2023, women only represent 31% of the bachelor students enrolled in physics and 27% of doctoral graduates in EU countries (Eurostat, 2023). From a historical perspective, some positive changes have been made, but the proportion of women in many Western EU countries is still too low to be considered a critical mass (cf. https://atominnen.at/inform/statistics/interactive-maps).
With atom*innen we want to contribute in making the change. Our goal is to advocate for a safe and inclusive environment in quantum science. Therefore, atom*innen is not meant to be only providing a platform, but also a community. Let's connect, work together and turn ideas into action for a better future for everyone.
THE ATOM*INNEN TEAM
The atom*innen team is working together to make women in quantum physics more visible and to develop a network they can rely on. The atom*innen team is working together to make women in quantum physics more visible and to develop a network they can rely on.
Francesca Ferlaino
Founder
Silvia Bonazza
Project development
Valentin Staubmann
IT Engineer
Karoline Irschara
Gender Officer
ATOM*INNEN ADVISORY BOARD
The atom*innen's advisory board is made up of women from a variety of quantum backgrounds who help us choose the way to go. Their expertise is essential for us to move forward.
Birgit Weihs-Dopfer
IQOQI Innsbruck, Austria
Rosario González-Férez
University of Granada, Spain
Costanza Toninelli
LENS, Italy
Monika Aidelsburger
University of Munich, Germany
Kang-Kuen Ni
Harvard University, United States
ATOM*INNEN COMMUNITY
YOU are atom*innen’s community! Any person working in quantum physics can be part of our network - it would be great to have you on board!
ATOM*INNEN HOST INSTITUTIONS
atom*innen's host institutions provide the infrastructures, logistical support and resources that make our project possible. The project is developed in collaboration with the Institute for Quantum Optics and Quantum Information (Innsbruck) of the Austrian Academy of Sciences.
ATOM*INNEN COLLABORATIONS
atom*innen collaborates with several universities, research institutes, foundations and physic societies. They work with us on specific projects, programs or activities on common objectives. We share resources and expertise to ensure a diversity of perspectives and skills.
FORMER MEMBERS
Angélique Sanchez
Gender officer