Shattering Barriers with a Laser Focus: Three World-Changing Women in Physics
Feb
25
2025
Feb
25
2025
Description
Donna Strickland’s pioneering work on chirped pulse amplification, a technique that revolutionized laser technology, earned her the Nobel Prize in 2018. Kim Budil’s contributions to laser fusion energy research has allowed her to lead one of the world’s premier research institutions. Elaine Li’s cutting-edge research at The University of Texas at Austin has far-reaching impact in the field of laser physics and quantum science.
Imagine defying gravity the way that Strickland, Budil and Li have, navigating a traditionally male-dominated field of physics to make some of the most important advances in their discipline. These three leading scientists will provide stories of their triumphs and challenges, along with lessons learned. Before the panel discussion, enjoy hands-on demos and exploration from physical science and astronomy groups all over campus.
Don’t miss this unique opportunity to engage with three of the most influential women in physics today. Gain valuable insights from inspiring scientific trailblazers, and learn how we can collectively work towards a future in the sciences where everyone feels welcome, mentored and supported.
Donna Strickland is a professor in the Department of Physics and Astronomy at the University of Waterloo and is one of the recipients of the 2018 Nobel Prize in Physics for developing chirped pulse amplification with Gérard Mourou, her Ph.D. supervisor at the time at the University of Rochester in New York.
Kimberly S. Budil sets the strategic vision for Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory and exercises broad delegated powers to ensure successful execution of programs and operations to enhance national security through cutting-edge science and technology and to maintain a diverse outstanding workforce.
Elaine Li is the Jack S. Josey Welch Foundation Chair in Science and the director of the new Texas Quantum Institute at UT Austin. An experimentalist, Li’s research focuses on studies of the quantum dynamics of electrons and learning how to control material properties at the level of electrons.
Todd Ditmire is professor of physics at UT Austin, where he directs the Center for High Energy Density Science. He focuses on experimental studies of high intensity laser interactions with matter and developing ultra-high peak power lasers, including the project to build the Texas Petawatt laser.