I followed science wherever it took me

Minervas Daughter Petra Pikulová
 

Petra Pikulová is a PhD student in the Neese group. She came to the Institute in 2023 from the Czech Republic, where she studied chemistry in Brno. As part of the Neese group, Petra is developing new features of the quantum chemistry software ORCA, which she would like to use in her own research in theoretical spectroscopy.

In this interview, Petra Pikulová tells us what brought her to Mülheim to join Frank Neese's group.

What brought you here? Tell us about your way to the Kohlenforschung!
Petra Pikulová: During my Master's thesis, I focused on the calculation of NMR and EPR spectra and used the ORCA software, among others. I became more and more interested in the theory and programming that goes into such a quantum chemistry program and wanted to take a "look under the hood". So, I applied for a PhD in the group and Frank Neese had a project for me.

What do you like about your work?
Petra: I like my colleagues, and all the interesting discussions, nerdy ideas or silly jokes that come up. The working atmosphere is really friendly. I also think I have a chance to learn a great deal here. And I am happy that my work is still related to spectroscopy, even if I am spending most of my time programming right now

What are your professional goals?
Petra: I enjoy doing science. At the moment, of course, I am concentrating on my PhD and I can see myself staying in academia. For a quantum chemist, a job as a programmer could also be an option, but I will see what happens.

What has been your most difficult step so far?
Petra: Probably moving to Germany by myself for my PhD studies. I did an ERASMUS exchange in Finland during my Master’s, but that was only for a few months. But in the end, moving here wasn’t all that difficult once I had a good reason. I didn’t have a special reason to pick Mülheim or Germany, I just followed science wherever it took me… (laughs)

Do you have a role model?
Petra: I don't know if I would say “role model”, but I have been lucky to have a few inspiring teachers. My chemistry teacher in high school encouraged us to do some chemistry competitions, I guess that’s when I first realized science is something I can think about, not just memorize from a textbook. My quantum chemistry professor in Brno was also a very dedicated teacher. I really like it when someone can teach with enthusiasm and pass on their spirit to younger people.

What advice would you give to young girls who are interested in working in a scientific institution?
Petra: If they are curious, they should try it. I think it's a lot of fun if you find a subject you're interested. At university we had a female high school student do an internship in our group, which is a great idea if you want to find out if you like working in chemistry.

If you had one wish: What would it be?
Petra: Maybe a small wish for science: I think there is always a danger of getting too swept up in competition. A bit of that is healthy, but I think science should first and foremost be fun. I think we could sometimes be kinder to each other, and give each other more benefit of the doubt.