Science that is fun and inspiring
Prof Maria Krikunova has been Professor of Laser and Plasma Technology at the Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences at TH Wildau since 2021. She spoke to the Career Centre for Professorial Development about her career path to professorship, her varied working day - and sporting challenges.
My path to a professorship at the Technical University of Applied Sciences Wildau was...
... characterised by my enthusiasm for physical-technical issues. We develop physical devices for ultra-precise measurements in laser-induced plasma dynamics. The equipment is used at major European research facilities, such as the free-electron laser in Hamburg (FLASH) and the ELI beamlines in the Czech Republic.
My path to the professorship was also characterised by constant curiosity, the desire to take on challenges, also in order to test and redefine my own limits. The path was not easy. Although I was pleased with many successful projects, I was also frustrated when some projects didn't turn out the way I had originally imagined.
In my professorship, I am shaping ...
... the Bachelor's degree programme "Physical Technologies and Energy Systems" and the Master's degree programme "Photonics". My teaching and research focuses on laser and plasma technology. In addition to questions from basic physical research, this includes numerous technical aspects from the fields of vacuum technology, optics and optomechanics, electronics, automation technology, data acquisition, evaluation and modelling. In my courses, I attach great importance to teaching physical thinking. For me, this means understanding complex, multidisciplinary relationships and critically evaluating and scrutinising the results and statements. My personal motto is: Physics is fun! ... and I want to pass this on to my students.
Working as a professor at a Technical University of Applied Sciences is unique because...
» My personal motto is: Physics is fun! ... and I want to pass this on to my students. «
... it is very diverse and therefore highly varied. In addition to teaching responsibilities such as lectures, seminars, practicals and supervising theses, research and coordination work are also part of my everyday life. I write scientific publications, give scientific lectures, organise scientific conferences and summer schools, maintain contacts with companies and other research groups, write and review project proposals and am active on university committees.
In Wildau and at the university, I particularly like...
... the cosy, historic campus, as well as the perfect geographical location, close to high-tech companies and excellent research institutions.
When I'm not at the university, you can find me...
… doing sports activities at Wildorado, a fitness centre near the campus that cooperates with the university and offers excellent fitness facilities. I continue my education and cultivate my professional contacts at international conferences or enjoy spending time with my family and friends hiking in the forest or travelling.
