Why Diversity Makes Better Physics

Why Diversity Makes Better Physics

Keynote at the DPG Spring Meeting in Mainz

Karoline Irschara, Gender Officer at atom*innen, together with Ulrike Böhm (ZEISS Group), will deliver a keynote address at the DPG Spring Meeting in Mainz.

Their presentation, titled “Why Diversity Makes Better Physics”, explores the benefits of diversity in Physics.

About the Talk

Despite clear advantages, significant gender imbalances persist in physics. Although the number of women studying physics in Central Europe has steadily increased, they remain underrepresented at senior levels. In Germany, for example, women currently hold only 12% of physics professorships — far below the threshold required to reach a critical mass.

The keynote will:

• Present recent data on gender representation in physics
• Examine structural and cultural factors contributing to disparities
• Discuss why diversity is essential for scientific excellence and innovation
• Highlight best practices from academia and industry
• Introduce atom*innen, the interactive platform connecting women and gender minorities in quantum physics

The presentation concludes with actionable measures aimed at strengthening inclusion and promoting equal opportunities within the physics community.

Networking Event

Following the keynote, participants are warmly invited to join an in-person networking event with refreshments.

If you are attending the meeting, we would be delighted if you stop by and connect with us.

The keynote and networking event are co-organized by jDPG and AKC, working groups within the German Physical Society (DPG). Special thanks to Sarah Embacher and Sabine Rockenstein for facilitating this collaboration.