DIPHER 24 - DIVERSITY IN PHYSICS FOR THE DIVERSITY OF PHYSICS - ERLANGEN 2024

5 Nov 2024, 14:00 → 7 Nov 2024, 16:00 Europe/Berlin

FAU

DIPHER 24 - DIVERSITY IN PHYSICS FOR THE DIVERSITY OF PHYSICS - ERLANGEN 2024

DIPHER 24 continues the legacy of fostering inclusivity and advancing gender and diversity in the FAU Physics Department. Building on the success of previous conferences, DIPHER24 aims to delve deeper into the intersectionality of gender, diversity, and cultural perspectives within our department and the physics community. The conference provides a platform for researchers, educators, students, and professionals to engage in meaningful discussions, share insights, and collaborate towards creating a more inclusive and equitable environment in the Physics Department. Since the topic is quite complex and we are limited in time, we will set the focus this year on cultural differences.

The conference will feature nine talks covering a diverse spectrum of topics in physics, with an emphasis on sharing personal experiences related to gender and diversity within the field. In addition, there will be a panel discussion titled "Cultural Perspectives in Physics: Navigating Diversity Through Experience and Collaboration", as well as a roundtable discussion on "Accessibility in Physics: Supporting Individuals with Special Needs in Education and Research."

Furthermore, two workshops will be held: one on "Cultural Differences in Feedback: Mastering Intercultural Teamwork", and another on "The Entanglement of Gender and Physics".

DIPHER 24 welcomes individuals at all stages of their academic and professional journey in physics, including undergraduate and graduate students, researchers, educators, and industry professionals. We encourage participation from individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds, identities, and perspectives.

DIPHER 2024 is organized by the Physics Department of the FAU, the  Physics Diversity Network PHYDINE and the Max-Planck-Institute for the Science of Light (MPI). Further contributors are the TRR QuCoLiMa (Quantum Cooperativity of Light and Matter), the former Cluster Engineering of Advanced Materials, the Forschungsgruppe eRO-Step and the Elite Graduate Programme in Physics. 

Confirmed speakers and panelists include:

Shada Abuhattum (MPL)

Seth Asante (University of Jena)

Alicia Castro (Bordeaux University)

Alicia Rouco Escorial (ESAC Madrid)

Cosimo Inserra (Cardiff University)

Tanniemola Liverpool (University of Bristol)

Patricia Pyrka, (Canada's National Ballet School Toronto)

Flavio Seno (University of Padova)

Sumati Surya (Raman Research Institute)

Matti Wetzel (University of Vienna)

Miriam Zapf (FAU Erlangen-Nürnberg)

 

Local Organizing Committee:

Shada Abuhattum

Jelena Celic

Kosmas Dandl

Renata Ferrero

Angela Fösel

Kristina Giesel

Paul Hartung

Ira Jung-Richardt

Roman Kemper

Anabel Kummer

Flore Kunst

Lea Lenke

Sabine Maier

Alison Mitchell

Jonas Neuser

Aafia Ansar Mohideen

Sara Saeedi

Manami Sasaki

Aashay Sathe

Eileen Schneider

Kai Phillip Schmidt

Ana-Sucana Smith

Maria Rentetzi

Melissa Rodriguez

     

    

                         

Tuesday 5 November

14:00 Registration

1 Welcome Address and Opening Remarks with Prof. Dr. Jürgen Schatz, Prof. Dr. Joachim von Zanthier and Prof. Dr. Kristina Giesel

Delivered by the Dean of the Faculty of Natural Sciences, Prof. Dr. Jürgen Schatz, the Head of the Physics Department, Prof. Dr. Joachim von Zanthier, and Prof. Dr. Kristina Giesel, one of the Women's Representatives of the Department of Physics

2 Beyond the standard: transient phenomena at low X-ray luminosity state & LGTBIQA+ initiatives at ESA and the Spanish Astronomical Society

In this talk I will introduce two topics that are objectively unrelated, but subjectively very close to each other in my heart: science and diversity, equity and inclusion matters.

On one hand, X-ray studies are a useful and powerful tool to disentangle the diverse physics behind the observed transient phenomena such as those in Be/X-ray binaries (BeXBs) and gamma-ray bursts (GRBs). Be/X-ray transients are high-mass X-ray binaries which harbour Be-type stars and highly magnetised neutron stars. While these systems have been intensely observed and studied during outburst, not much is known about their 'not-in-outburst' state, i.e. at low X-ray luminosities. I will present the different scenarios proposed to explain the X-ray behaviour shown by BeXBs during this state, from low-level accretion to crustal cooling of the neutron star, and the role played by the high magnetic field of the neutron star in these scenarios. On the other hand, GRBs show some of the most energetic transient phenomena in the Universe. Their synchrotron emission allows for multi-wavelength studies where the joint power of X-ray and optical observations reveals information about the energetics, jet opening angles, environments and progenitor channels of these events. In general, two different progenitor channels have been proposed and demonstrated depending on the GRB duration, either double neutron-star mergers (short GRBs) or the collapse of massive stars (long GRBs). I will introduce our lates study of late X-ray afterglow detection of SGRBs. This allows us to infer the rate of neutron star-neutron star mergers and compare it with the current rates obtained from the LIGO/VIRGO/KAGRA collaboration and galactic studies.

Speaker: Dr Alicia Rouco Escorial (ESAC Madrid, Accreting neutron stars - X-ray astronomy)

3 Order and Number, A Route to Quantum Gravity

One of the very many open problems in theoretical physics is that of quantising gravity, which is the attempt to successfully combine general relativity and quantum theory. In this talk I will give a broad overview of the problem of quantum gravity and the choices that we can make, along the routes we take. This will lead me to the poset-based "causal set" approach to quantisation. This is a discrete, Lorentzian, sum-over-histories formulation which combines the "essence" of Lorentzian geometry with UV finiteness. In the continuum approximation of the theory, the order relation corresponds to causality while cardinality or number corresponds to spacetime volume. I will describe elements of this theory and where it has led us in our search for a non-perturbative theory of quantum gravity.

Speaker: Prof. Sumati Surya (Raman Research Institute, Quantum Gravity)

4 Welcome reception and dinner

Location: ECAP https://maps.app.goo.gl/P1WzGLRbSGE7k4yP9

Caterer: Immergrun.

Further information can be found at: https://www.dein-immergruen.de/

1. WRAPS
   (a) Chicken caesar
   • Ingredients Chicken, Grana Padano, tomatoes, cream cheese, mixed
   salad, Caesar dressing.
   • Allergens: Mustard and mustard products, wheat, milk / dairy products,
   egg and egg products.
   (b) Mexican
   • Ingredients: Pulled beef, corn, jalape˜ nos, cream cheese, mixed salad,
   chipotle sauce.
   • Allergens: Wheat, milk / dairy products, egg and egg products.
   (c) Falafel (vegan)
   • Ingredients: Falafel, chickpeas, pickled red cabbage, hummus, mixed
   salad, lentil spread, vegan sylt-style dressing.
   • Allergens: Wheat, sesame.
   (d) Plant power (vegan)
   • Ingredients: Sesame tofu, carrots, pickled red cabbage, violife creamy,
   mixed salad, curry spread, peanut sauce.
   • Allergens: Soy /soy protein, almond, peanuts, sesame.

2. SALADS
   (a) Wilde Ziege Salat (vegan, gluten-free)
   • Ingredients: Mixed greens, Violife Greek White Block with balsamic cream,
   grilled vegetables, cherry tomatoes, pickled onions, chopped walnuts, light
   balsamic dressing.
   • Allergens: Sulfur dioxide and sulfites, walnuts.
   (b) Beef Banditos (gluten-free)
   • Ingredients: Jasmine rice, quinoa, mixed greens, pulled beef ”chipotle,”
   pickled red cabbage, cherry tomatoes, corn, tortilla chips, Puebla dressing.
   • Allergens: Soy / soy protein, milk / dairy products, egg and egg products.
   (c) Soya Power (vegan)
   • Ingredients: Mixed greens, organic almond-sesame tofu with satay sauce,
   edamame, pickled red cabbage, cucumber, chopped peanuts, roasted
   sesame dressing
   • Allergens: Mustard and mustard products, wheat, soy / soy protein,
   almond, peanuts, sesame.
   (d) Julius Caesar
   • Ingredients: Romaine lettuce, chicken, egg, cherry tomatoes, Grana
   Padano, baked bread chips, Caesar dressing.
   • Allergens: Mustard and mustard products, wheat, milk / dairy products,
   egg and egg products.

3. DESSERTS:
   (a) Brownie Schokoblume (vegan, gluten-free)
   • Ingredients: Not provided.
   • Allergens: Soy / soy protein, pistachios.
   (b) Brownie cheesecake
   • Ingredients: Fruity blueberries and raspberries immersed in creamy New
   York cheesecake filling.
   • Allergens: Wheat, milk / dairy products, egg and egg products.
   (c) Banana bread (vegan)
   • Ingredients: No information provided.
   • Allergens: No information provided.

Wednesday 6 November

5 Breaking Barriers: Advancing Diversity and Inclusion in Astronomy and Astrophysics Across Europe

Diversity and inclusion are essential for fostering innovation and progress in any scientific field. However, the disciplines of astronomy and astrophysics in Europe continue to face significant challenges in achieving equitable representation of different genders, ethnicities, and socioeconomic backgrounds. This talk will present an analysis of the current state of diversity within these fields, drawing on recent data from European institutions. I will explore both the visible and systemic barriers that hinder full participation, ranging from implicit biases in hiring practices to limited opportunities for early-career scientists from underrepresented groups.
Furthermore, I will highlight promising initiatives aimed at addressing these disparities, such as mentoring networks, inclusive policies in research funding, and strategies for creating a more supportive academic environment.

Speaker: Prof. Cosimo Inserra (Cardiff University, Astronomy and Astrophysics)

6 Constructing a consistent and computable quantum space-time

Einstein’s theory of general relativity successfully describes gravitation by providing dynamics for the geometry of space-time continuum. However, at small scales or in extreme conditions, the smooth structure of space-time breaks down and must be replaced by a notion of quantum space-time. In this talk, I will present a framework for constructing a notion of ‘quantum geometry’, whose dynamics determine the properties of a quantum space-time and is expected to be consistent over all scales. I will focus on simple models to illustrate such a construction, highlighting the key principles and challenges involved in building a computable quantum space-time.

Speaker: Dr Seth Asante (University of Jena, Quantum Gravity)

7 The physics and mathematics of wound healing

I will discuss some recent work looking quantitatively at the process of wound healing using ideas from thermodynamics and statistical mechanics. Wound healing is a highly conserved process required for survival of an animal after tissue damage. The wound repair process is not only of great interest in its own right but is also a laboratory to study complex tissue dynamics and regeneration.

Many wounds involve damage to an epithelial (barrier) tissue (like skin) that separates different regions of the body of a living organism. I will describe some recent work on studying wound healing in two dimensional epithelial tissues of a fruit fly pupal wing. This epithelium was chosen because it is transparent and accessible to sophisticated imaging techniques. We use live confocal time-lapse microscopy to follow the behaviour of cells in a tissue before and after wounding.

I will focus on three cell-behaviours that are generally accepted to contribute to wound re-epithelialisation: cell shape deformation, cell division, and cell migration.

I will describe how we are beginning to use a combination of mathematics, physics and biology to disentangle some of the organising principles behind the complex orchestrated dynamics that lead to wound healing.

https://people.maths.bris.ac.uk/~matbl/

Speaker: Prof. Tanniemola Liverpool (University of Bristol, Biophysics)

13:00 Lunch Break

8 Workshop on Cultural Differences in Feedback: Mastering Intercultural Teamwork

In today's academic world, intercultural collaboration is commonplace, yet cultural differences in communication and behavior can lead to misunderstandings and ineffective teamwork. One key aspect is how feedback is given and received, as different cultures often have varying expectations.

Feedback is vital for teamwork and across hierarchy levels. Even within one culture, there are dos and don’ts to ensure feedback is constructive, accepted, and implemented. Providing and receiving feedback requires a new level of competence when working with different cultures. International leaders must learn to navigate culturally diverse communication styles to ensure feedback is effectively understood and acted upon.

For instance, Germans may perceive their direct communication style as blunt or demotivating in some cultures. Conversely, people from indirect communication cultures might discover that subtle feedback goes unnoticed.

In this interactive workshop, we will develop best practices and engage in hands-on exercises to foster intercultural team competence. Participants will also have the opportunity to ask questions and share experiences with peers.

Speaker: Dr Iris Wangermann

9 Workshop on the Entanglement of Gender and Physics.

In the seminar this workshop is based on, we asked the question: how does gender shape science? While the first perception might be that sciences such as physics are independent of their researchers and consecutive genders, we looked at multiple ways gender interacts with the process of knowledge acquisition, starting with the questions scientists choose to ask (or not to ask) to the way of communicating scientific findings. We found that science reflects the gendered norms and values of the society that produces and consumes it.

Throughout the workshop, we look at two student projects from the respective seminar which examine the impact of gender on students‘ lives within the community of physics students at FAU and explore the (un)importance of the way professors at FAU dress and which implications dress choices have in such an academic context.

Speakers: Anabel Kummer (Friedrich Alexander Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg), Eileen Schneider (Friedrich Alexander Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg), Elisabeth Meusert (Friedrich Alexander Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg), Ralf Mitschke (Friedrich Alexander Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg), Susanne Lechler (Friedrich Alexander Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg)

16:00 Coffee Break

10 Panel Discussion on Cultural Perspectives in Physics: Navigating Diversity Through Experience and Collaboration

This panel brings together physicists from diverse cultural backgrounds to share their experiences of navigating the global physics community. The discussion will explore how different perspectives can enhance scientific collaboration and innovation, while also addressing the challenges that arise in multicultural environments. Panelists will reflect on their own journeys, offering insights into fostering inclusivity in research and education. Designed as an open discussion, this session invites audience participation to broaden the conversation on building inclusive and supportive spaces within the field of physics.

Panelists:
Seth Asante (University of Jena)
Alicia Castro (Bordeaux University)
Shada Abuhattum (MPL)

11 Dinner

caterer: Bella Mia (https://bellamia.de/1749)

1. PIZZAS
   (a) Salami: Beef salami.
   (b) Speciale: Beef salami, turkey ham, mushrooms, bell peppers.
   (c) Schinken (ham): Turkey ham.
   (d) Capricciosa: Turkey ham, mushrooms, artichokes.
   (e) Pescatore: Seafruits.
   (f) Caprese: Mozzarella, fresh tomatoes, and basil.
   (g) Bella Mia: Artichokes, olives, bell peppers, spinach, and onions.
   (h) Italia: Spinat, paprika und zwiebeln.
   (i) Vegetarish: Zucchini, bell peppers, eggplant, and mushrooms.
   (j) Roma: Gorgonzola, spinach, and corn.
   (k) Quattro Formaggi: Mozzarella, Gouda, Gorgonzola, and feta cheese.
   (l) Vegan: Mushrooms, onions, broccoli, spinach, corn- without cheese

2. SALADS
   (a) Mista: Green salad, tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions.
   (b) Avocado: Mixed salad with arugula, tomatoes, avocado, and mozzarella.
   (c) Salmone: Mixed salad with smoked salmon, carrots, bell peppers, and onions.

Thursday 7 November

12 Why Word (Form) Choice Matters: Linguistic Perspectives on Gender-Inclusive Language

In recent years, the issue of gender-inclusive language use has ignited increasingly controversial debates across various countries and language communities. In languages with grammatical gender, this particularly concerns the use of alternative forms for so-called masculine generic terms. While some argue that the gendered meaning of masculine forms can be neutralized – allowing these terms to refer to individuals regardless of gender –, others state that masculine forms are primarily associated with persons of male gender in cognitive processing.
This talk aims to shed light on how insights from linguistic research can contribute to a more nuanced understanding of this topic. We will begin by defining what ‘gender-inclusive language use’ entails and exploring some gender-inclusive language forms currently under discussion in languages such as German, Spanish, and French. We will then critically examine common arguments for and against gender-inclusive language use from a linguistic point of view, drawing on findings from recent psycholinguistic research. Finally, we will identify areas that warrant further investigation and discuss some societal questions that remain to be addressed.

Speaker: Dr Miriam Zapf (FAU Erlangen-Nürnberg, Linguistics)

13 Beyond Brownian diffusion

In this seminar, I will illustrate why, more than 100 years after Einstein's fundamental work on Brownian motion, this topic is still debated. In particular, I will discuss some of its anomalies and focus on what is defined as Brownian but non-Gaussian behavior. I will highlight the possible biological advantages of this phenomenon. In the last part of the seminar, I will talk about gender, inclusion, and diversity policies at the University of Padua and in my Department.

Speaker: Prof. Flavio Seno (University of Padova, Condensed Matter Physics)

14 Lunch Break

Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/fGM72K6aLoa6jmAj8

Further information (in German) can be found at: https://www.werkswelt.de/mensen-cafeterien-cafebars?id=sued

(a) Kaiserschmarrn with almonds and apple sauce (vegetarian). Allergens: wheat, egg, milck, almonds.
(b) Franconian Sauerbraten Allergens: Color agent, wheat, milk, celery, sulfur dioxide and sulfites.
(c) Sweet Potato Pan with Pumpkin Seeds and Pesto Rosso (vegan) Allergens: Almonds

15 Physics, Palsy and Pliės

Despite revolutionary social and technological changes in the past decades, the "what do I want to do when I grow up" approach to life still dominates our thinking: Go to school, get a degree or vocational training, start working, build more and more expertise in your field, climb the corporate or academic ladder, retire, and then enjoy life. Such a life path may feel secure and predictable and promises reputational and financial growth.

But what if your interests change? Or if life throws unexpected things at you, or your abilities require a different approach? What if you discover hidden talents at a later stage of life?

In her talk, Patricia challenges the single-track trajectory through life by telling her own story - which took her from being a physicist, working in professional hockey, becoming a mother to a disabled child, to unexpectedly starting ballet at age 37 and now, ten years later, getting her teaching diploma from Canada's National Ballet School.

Patricia will also speak about her experiences as a caregiver to her now 18-year-old disabled son, and why the educational system and the participatory aspect of life made them decide to move from Germany to Canada.

Patricia shares her conclusions from this path and postulates that different stages in life, as well as our unique responsibilities and abilities, may not only benefit from but require new expressions of our selves. She will also touch upon how integrating our personal tragedies and pains into those expressions can deepen them and allow us to become more responsive and less attached to one particular way or the other.

Speaker: Patricia Pyrka (Canda's National Ballet School Toronto)

16 Roundtable Discussion: Supporting People with Special Needs in Education and Research

This roundtable discussion focuses on improving accessibility in education and research for individuals with special needs, in both educational settings and research environments. Participants will explore how the physics and beyond community can create more inclusive spaces by addressing physical, sensory, and cognitive barriers. Through shared personal experiences and reflections, the discussion aims to identify actionable solutions to enhance access and participation for people with disabilities. The conversation will encourage open dialogue, fostering a collaborative atmosphere where practical strategies can be developed to ensure everyone has equal opportunities to succeed in education and research .

Discussion Participants:
Patricia Pyrka (Canada's National Ballet School Toronto)
Matti Wetzel (University of Vienna)

17 Closing Remarks with Prof. Dr. Jürgen Schatz, Prof. Dr. Alexander Schneider, Prof. Dr. Friedlinde Götz-Neunhoeffer and Prof. Dr. Kristina Giesel

Delivered by the Dean of the Faculty of Natural Sciences, Prof. Dr. Jürgen Schatz, the Deputy Head of the Physics Department Prof. Dr. Alexander Schneider, the Women's Representative of the Faculty of Natural Sciences Prof. Dr. Friedlinde Götz-Neunhoeffer and Prof. Dr. Kristina Giesel, one of the Women's Representatives of the Department of Physics