Academic Centre
A series of stories about the hobbies of seven scientists is currently being published under the umbrella of initiative "Not too scientific" (“Ne tik zinātniski”). It is planned to continue with stories describing people’s experience of arriving at the UL Institute of Solid State Physics, revealing what fascinates them, fun stories, quips and antics from their time of studies and various episodes occurring in laboratory.
“We hope that these photographs and stories will bring out human touch of the exact sciences,” says Dr. phys. Līga Grīnberga, Head of the Information and Communication Department of the Institute of Solid State Physics.
The University of Latvia Institute of Solid State Physics over a long period of time attracts young people to studies of natural sciences through various activities and initiatives. For example, for 13 years they organize the event “The Sun Cup” for schoolchildren, where they are invited to create models of vehicles that use solar energy. The institute has also arranged visits to schools, where its representatives told pupils about the profession of a scientist, and organised excursions. However, one problem transpires constantly – the prevailing views of a scientist and his or her endeavours are very stereotypical – an old Einstein-looking uncle in a white robe who is stirring something in a test tube or causing random explosions. This imaginary individual lives in his workplace, has no other interests or passions, and generally is not really "normal". Moreover, he cannot earn anything, one may much better go and bake muffins,” L. Grīnberga shares her observations. This view also reigns among parents of children, and this is one of the reasons why the number of students in physics is devastatingly low.
L. Grīnberga explains that both historically and according to statistics, the state is more economically secure and stable if it invests more in the development of science, including innovation. However, there is another side to this story: in the absence of capable people to invest in, it will not be possible to “warm up” the economy in the long run. Therefore, it is important to prevent unfounded prejudice, stereotypes. Young people with a capable mind, skilled hands and a passion for discovery and research should be encouraged to choose the profession of researcher. It is an opportunity to build a career in Latvia, creating a new generation of scientists that will strengthen the country's economic stability and competitiveness.
“The more the public is informed and accepts the existence of science in Latvia and realizes that it is a prestigious profession with pleasant colleagues, an interesting work environment and a dynamic work process, the greater the likelihood that a scientist is not perceived as a bogey but a friend. This is a way not to lose capable minds that can research and discover, attract projects and funding, “build” science and transfer it into products, create start-ups and collaborate with existing companies. Thus, various problems are solved, and the introduction of innovations is promoted by developing the economy and the country's competitiveness. The result is a better life for all. However, this is not and cannot be a five-year plan – it is a plan of entire generation,” emphasizes L. Grīnberga.
