Dark matter explorer sets on Antarctic voyage
Centre researcher Theresa Fruth is about to set sail on the trip of a lifetime to Antarctica as part of the Homeward Bound leadership program for women and non-binary people in STEMM.
Dr Fruth is among 108 scientists from around the world who will mark the end of the program with the voyage, beginning on January 26.
Over 15 nights, the participants will network, continue to develop their leadership skills and take part in a symposium in which each will present their research topics.
In preparation, the scientists have undertaken a year-long online component that included coaching, discussions on leadership and sustainability, engaging with other women across a wide range of scientific fields, and expert feedback.
The program aims to develop the leadership skills of participants so they can help address some of the significant issues that scientists and the wider community face now and into the future.
Dr Fruth says the program has provided an opportunity to step back and think strategically about her work and approach to leadership.
“The opportunity to be involved in Homeward Bound came at a time when I had just started a new job as a lecturer, which brings new challenges compared to being a postdoc.
“It has helped me reflect on my leadership style and identify the areas I want to focus on and develop,” she said.
“The voyage will offer even more opportunity to reflect deeply on my purpose and strategy as we will be really disconnected for that time.”
Dr Fruth said she was also looking forward to networking with other scientists involved in the program and contribute her skills to help address some of the world’s big problems, including climate change.
“The backdrop of Antarctica, which is this big symbol – one of the last real wildernesses where there has been very little human touch but still a lot of human impact from climate change – will be very inspirational.
“It can be difficult to see hgow dark matter research can address these problems, but one of the reasons why I’m part of the program is to find opportunities where my skills can help some of those real life, real world problems we’re facing.”
Along with the professional development opportunity the voyage will provide Dr Fruth, she is also looking forward to doing some wildlife spotting, hoping to see young penguins or other animals living in Antarctica.
Homeward Bound was established in 2014 with the aim of creating a global network of individuals leading and able to solve our world’s greatest challenges.
By connecting influential women and non-binary people in STEMM and putting them through this leadership program, it aims to give 10,000 participants the skill and will to lead with impact and influence for the greater good by 2036.
Anyone who would like to support Theresa to make this extraordinary journey can donate at https://chuffed.org/project/105419-support-theresas-journey-to-antarctica
More information about the voyage is available at the Homeward Bound website. Applications for the next cohort are now open.