Outstanding contributions of women to applied physics: Prof. Sotomayor-Torres’ work among them

by Virginia Greco

The ‘Journal of Physics D: Applied Physics’ has published a roadmap of remarkable research studies led by women in 15 sub-disciplines of applied physics, with the aim of recognising the work of female scientists and inspiring future generations. ICREA Prof. Dr Clivia Sotomayor-Torres, group leader at the ICN2, is mentioned in the section dedicated to nano-photonics and -phononincs.

An overview of relevant research in applied physics led by women, who are at an advanced or earlier stage of their career, is provided by a paper titled “The 2022 applied physics by pioneering women: a roadmap”, recently published by the ‘Journal of Physics D: Applied Physics’. Authored by female scientists and engineers, it aims to celebrate the accomplishments of women, showcase established and emerging researchers who are pushing the boundaries of their fields, and increase visibility of the impact that women have on applied physics research.

Recognising the significant contributions of women to applied physics research and development is essential both to foster an equitable environment that supports the success of women in this field and to encourage greater involvement. This helps to remove barriers that have historically prevented women (and under-represented collectives) from participating in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields. In addition, by showcasing the successes of women in these fields, we can inspire more young women to consider scientific careers as attainable and desirable, because “if you see it, it is possible”.

The Roadmap on Women in Applied Physics covers 15 sub-disciplines that are representative of current interests within the applied physics community. Among the leading women researchers mentioned in the “Nanophotonics and Nanophononics” section is ICREA Prof. Dr Clivia Sotomayor-Torres, leader of the ICN2 Phononic and Photonic Nanostructures Group. In particular, the authors highlighted her studies on the thermal conduction properties of graphene layers and phononic crystals.

Reference article:

Begoña Abad et al., The 2022 applied physics by pioneering women: a roadmap. J. Phys. D: Appl. Phys., Volume 56, Number 7. 2023. DOI: 10.1088/1361-6463/ac82f9