We had the privilege to get to know Frida Strömbeck, a remarkable figure in the world of science and technology. As a Postdoctoral Researcher at Chalmers University of Technology, Frida’s journey is a testament to her passion for integrated circuit design, particularly in the realm of high data rate millimeter wave communication.
Her career trajectory is a captivating blend of curiosity, determination, and groundbreaking achievements. In this interview, Frida shares insights into her motivations, highlights from her scientific career, and invaluable advice for aspiring scientists, especially women navigating the challenges of STEM fields. Join us as we delve into the fascinating world of science through the lens of Frida Strömbeck’s remarkable experiences and perspectives.
COREnext: What initially motivated you to pursue a career in science? Has that motivation evolved? If so, how?
Frida Strömbeck: I have always liked figuring out how things work and solving problems. I studied engineering physics at university because space is really cool. Somehow, I ended up taking a course in integrated circuit design, and then I was hooked.
What motivates me today is still my passion for circuit design and the challenges we have to overcome. There is so much to do and explore in the future.
COREnext: Can you share one or more highlights of your scientific career?
Frida Strömbeck: Measuring my first integrated circuit that I had designed, waiting eight months for it to get fabricated and realising that it actually worked in real life and not only simulations.
Finally reaching data rátes above 100 Gbps over a one meter polymer microwave fiber (PMF), which was a goal that we worked towards a very long time, that almost felt impossible in the beginning.
COREnext: As a successful woman scientist, what advice would you give to younger generations or women aspiring to enter the field of science, particularly in overcoming challenges or barriers they may face?
Frida Strömbeck: Make sure you do it for the right reasons, because that will be the motivation that drives you when things are difficult. Things will fail, you will get rejected and questioned a lot. That’s part of being a researcher. If things never fails, you haven’t taken enough risks. It’s from the failures we learn.
COREnext: In your experience, what strategies have you found most effective in fostering diversity and inclusion within scientific communities, and how do you believe these efforts contribute to advancements in scientific research?
Frida Strömbeck: Expect to be treated the same as everyone else. Excluding someone due to their gender/ethnicity/sexual preference etc is extreamly stupid and narrow-minded, and we really don’t need narrow-minded people doing scientific research.
COREnext: What do you envision for the future of women in science, and what steps do you believe are essential for creating a more equitable and supportive environment for women pursuing careers in STEM fields?
Frida Strömbeck: Role models (top researchers) standing up against sexism. I am very lucky working in a great team where we trust and support each other, which is why we are succesful. Hopefully this attitude will spred to other groups.