Some time ago at Institute IQOQI-Innsbruck, Francesca Ferlaino began developing the idea of creating an online user-interactive platform to empower and support women in (quantum) physics, with the aim of providing a focal point for gathering information and connections. Today, the project has taken form and it's called Atom*innen. It will be launched on April 11th in Vienna.

To emphasise the importance of inclusive language, the university's new regulations were written using the feminine for all persons in the singular and plural: something very rare in institutional contexts.

The University of Trento's board unanimously approved a new regulation where all positions are referred to in the feminine form, aiming to promote gender equality in language. This move challenges the traditionally overextended use of the masculine in Italian, reflecting broader debates on sexism in language. While this linguistic shift is rare in institutional settings, it echoes ongoing discussions in Italian public and political spheres. Such debates include instances where female professionals advocate for recognition in the feminine form, while others argue for maintaining traditional linguistic conventions. This issue intersects with broader discussions about introducing inclusive language in official documents, an area where Italian politics has historically been resistant. Despite efforts like an unsuccessful 2022 amendment advocating for gender-inclusive language in official communication, the debate surrounding gendered language persists in Italian society.

Read the full article in ilpost.

Women and girls make invaluable contributions to science but all too often face systemic barriers throughout their career: the scientific community still looses way too many bright minds at different levels of an academic career. We cannot afford that. Together, let's commit to creating an inclusive environment where all voices are heard and valued, where everyone has the opportunity to reach their full potential. Let's celebrate the women who inspire, innovate and transform our world through their passion for science and open opportunities for young girls to follow their paths.
With everyone onboard, we can build a future where girls will no longer be limited in pursuing their dreams, whether in STEM or any other field.


DARE !

Francesca Ferlaino and Hannes Pichler have both received a research award from the Südtiroler Sparkasse Foundation. 

With the "Scientist of the Year" award, the Club of Education and Science Journalists is honouring the efforts of scientists to communicate their work and their discipline to a broad public for the 30th time. This year Glacier researcher Andrea Fischer won the award for her outstanding job of communicating the importance of research on ongoing climate change and the associated glacier retreat in particular to the general public.

Alison Patteson is the recipient of the Maria Goeppert Mayer Award 2024 from the American Physical Society.