Dipti has found working at the IAEA to be an empowering experience. “I’ve been enabled to work quite independently on these projects,” she said. “In general, throughout my career I have felt very supported by my teachers, my PHD supervisor, and at work. A supportive work environment helps me to be productive.”
Another challenge Dipti has faced is adjusting to life in a new country, something she once thought she would never be able to do.
“During my PhD I was given the opportunity to attend a school at the International Centre for Theoretical Physics (ICTP) in Italy and I thought after that, that I wouldn’t be able to live in another country than India,” she said. “But then an opportunity to work at the National Institute of Standards and Technology in the USA came along, and I decided I had to try and get out of my comfort zone, and to try it for one year. I ended up working abroad for seven years,”
Dipti admits to experiencing some culture shock on first arriving in Vienna. Now she keeps homesickness at bay by streaming cricket matches, especially those involving the Indian national cricket team, cooking her favourite dishes and attending potluck suppers with friends. She says she is glad she took a chance and overcame her fears to enjoy new challenges in her career and encourages other young women working in STEM to do the same.
“In India, there can be quite a traditional culture, but I would say to other women, just follow your heart and believe in your abilities. Take on challenges and see the potential, even if you feel apprehensive.
“To me, living in a different country is both challenging and exciting due to the diverse culture, opportunity to meet new people and learn from their perspectives, and enjoying different culinary traditions as well as rich art forms. To overcome the difficulties of residing in a foreign country, I prioritize regular communication with my family and friends, while occasionally visiting them.
“I recognize that managing personal and professional responsibilities and commitments may become more demanding in the future. However, I consider it crucial to address this aspect to maintain a healthy work-life balance.”
Dipti hopes to continue with research as she progresses through her career and is testament to the power of gender equality initiatives to create opportunities in STEM for women.
“I think initiatives such as expert opportunities, gender inclusivity in the workplace, workshops tailored to women, and networks such as the IAEA’s Women in Fusion, can help enable more women to pursue a career in the nuclear field,” she said.
