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Francesca Ferlaino, a prominent physicist in Innsbruck, Austria, focuses on uncovering quantum phenomena at temperatures approaching absolute zero. Originally from Naples, she arrived at the University of Innsbruck in 2006 as a guest scientist to study ultracold molecules and has since made Austria her home. She is currently serving as a professor and scientific director at the Austrian Academy of Sciences’ Institute for Quantum Optics and Quantum Information in Innsbruck.

At a recent gala where she received Austria’s “Person of the Year” award, Ferlaino reflected on how being recognized as an Italian felt meaningful and inspiring, especially for the international scientific community. Her research into unknown states of matter has led to significant findings, including observing “suprasolid” states, where atoms display properties of both liquids and solids simultaneously—a groundbreaking discovery in quantum physics.

To study quantum interactions, Ferlaino cools atoms to near absolute zero, allowing the observation of interactions without direct contact, particularly with highly magnetic erbium atoms. These atoms can exchange information across distances without touching, a phenomenon with potential to revolutionize data transmission.

When asked about her scientific role models, such as Erwin Schrödinger and Anton Zeilinger, Francesca Ferlaino humbly declined comparison. She noted also that, in her experience, scientific breakthroughs are collaborative efforts rather than individual genius. With few women in her field, she founded atom*innen. 

Ferlaino champions fundamental research, advocating that advances in science often stem from basic discoveries rather than immediate applications. As highlighted by Henrietta Egerth-Stadlhuber, the Managing Director of the Austrian Research Promotion Agency FFG, foundational research may take decades to impact humanity but is crucial in the long term, serving the collective needs of society.

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Over 30 female Quantum Professors have united to release a powerful Manifesto of Values. They reflect on gender issues in quantum physics and call for change with a clear set of values. Let's support and amplify their voices! hashtag

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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.


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