Choosing a field of study and career path is often challenging—especially when those around you have already formed certain expectations. However, today’s opportunities are so broad that one can combine multiple disciplines to create a unique career path. The key is to think broadly, set high goals, and not succumb to stereotypes. Therefore, it is very important to organize various projects aimed at promoting women’s interest and desire to study and start a career in STEM fields, particularly emphasizing engineering, states Aurēlija Viņķe, a participant in the “Girls Go CERN” project.
Thanks to two Latvian universities—Riga Technical University (RTU) and Rīga Stradiņš University (RSU)—the fields of physics and medicine have been combined, providing the opportunity to study in the interdisciplinary program “Medical Engineering and Physics.”
Since childhood, my relatives were convinced that I would become a doctor, and until the 12th grade, medical studies seemed like a logical next step. However, I have always been fascinated by physics, which intrigued me just as much as biology and chemistry. Thanks to this study program implemented by both universities, I didn’t have to choose and can study in both fields. The program combines the acquisition of technical subjects at RTU with medical knowledge at RSU, allowing me to obtain both a degree in physics and an engineering qualification.
This unusual combination allows for an understanding of medicine from a physics perspective, delving into areas such as medical technology development, radiology, and radiation therapy. It is a program that demands hard work and is longer than similar programs elsewhere in Europe, but its versatility and the knowledge gained, which combines medicine and physics, make it a unique experience.
Accidental application opened the door to CERN
At the start of my studies, I had decided to take every opportunity offered to me, and at some point, I noticed the “Girls Go CERN” project, a collaboration between the “Riga TechGirls” association and RTU, which provided the chance to go on an educational visit to the European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN) laboratory in Geneva, Switzerland. The project invited motivated women who wanted to learn more about science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. There were several selection rounds, including interviews, and in fierce competition, I was one of the two selected to go to CERN.
Although it seemed challenging at first, I now realize how much this project changed my perspective—in just three days, I gained a deeper understanding of CERN’s research and technology development and met passionate scientists who work daily on global scientific challenges.
I now believe that one should not be afraid to take risks, as it is the only way to achieve true success. Science is accessible to anyone ready to seize its opportunities and rise above stereotypes and barriers.
From visits to real projects
Participation in projects became a significant stage in my academic and professional development. After getting to know the Latvian representatives at CERN, who are working on innovative cancer treatment methods, my motivation to engage in science took a broader and more practical form. As a research assistant, I began actively participating in the RTU Particle Physics and Accelerator Technology Institute, working on the “Next Ion Medical Machine Study” (NIMMS), which is developing next-generation particle accelerators for medical applications in heavy ion therapy. This project investigates technologies that can accelerate not only protons but also other ions, such as helium ions, which could provide more effective treatment for tumors in complex anatomical locations, as well as for pediatric patients.
In the spring, I had the opportunity to go to CERN for the first time to intern in the “Crystal Clear Collaboration” (CCC) project, where I gained an understanding of the use of scintillating materials in medical imaging.
During the summer, I had a fantastic and unique opportunity to return to CERN for the Summer School program. The CERN Summer School is a unique program with high competition—each year, over a thousand students from around the world apply, but only about 150 pass the selection. The Summer School offers high-level lectures on CERN research directions, and students have the chance to actively engage in current research projects alongside CERN scientific staff for three months.
During the Summer School, I continued my active involvement in the NIMMS project. My task was to research proton radiography for cancer therapy applications—a truly exciting and ambitious research project. It was an opportunity to conduct simulations that provide insights into whether the use of high-energy protons in radiography could ensure adequate image quality with the particle accelerator developed by NIMMS.
The project not only provided technical skills but also reminded me of the importance of persistence and seizing opportunities offered by such international collaborations. I was a second-year student but was already able to work on such significant research—this still seems incredible.
From CERN to Heidelberg: Next steps in the journey of science
The experience I gained not only broadened my horizons but also opened new opportunities in science—I will present my research results at the CERN Baltic States Conference in Tallinn in October. Immediately after Christmas, I will participate in an exchange program at Heidelberg University in Germany. A significant requirement in my study program is clinical practice, which I plan to combine with the exchange trip, interning at the Ion Therapy Center of Heidelberg University Clinic. It is one of the best heavy ion therapy research institutions in Europe. This step will not only help me develop my professional skills but will also open doors at one of the leading institutions in my research field, which is the highest level in my area in Europe.
I received this opportunity thanks to organizations in Latvia that actively work to promote interest in science and its possibilities among women and girls. Highlighting good examples of scientists and fields and drawing on experiences that connect me with various people and knowledge. My professional plans are now clearer than ever—I definitely want to continue working in radiation therapy and possibly even pursue a doctorate. This experience has helped me realize that the scientific environment and the academic world are what truly excite me and provide immense satisfaction.
The project organized by “Riga TechGirls” with financial support from the Latvian Ministry of Education and Science and the CERN National Contact Point in Latvia helped me understand that I chose the right path, combining my interest in medicine with technology and physics. Meeting with Latvian representatives at CERN, especially with my supervisor, CERN PhD student Kristaps Paļskis, inspired me to delve deeper into particle physics, particle accelerators, and their applications in medical physics. Since then, I have actively participated in various projects related to the application of innovative particle accelerator technologies in cancer therapy. It is precisely the willingness to take risks and persistence that have helped me reach these successes and experiences.
Publicity photo: Project “Girls Go CERN” participant Aurēlija Viņķe