Cinzia DaVià: The Power of Collaboration in Physics and Beyond
For Cinzia DaVià, collaboration isn’t just a buzzword; it’s the foundation of her professional life. From her pivotal contributions to silicon sensor development at CERN to her current work on sustainable energy solutions, a collaborative spirit consistently drives her success.
A Career Forged at CERN
Cinzia DaVià is currently a Professor of Physics at the University of Manchester in England and a Research Professor at Stony Brook University in New York. Her journey began with a childhood fascination sparked by the Italian television series “Astronomia,” inspired by Carl Sagan’s “Cosmos.” [1] This early interest led her to pursue physics at the University of Bologna in Italy.
A summer internship at CERN in Geneva proved transformative. Initially intending to focus on astrophysics, DaVià’s path shifted towards radiation instrumentation while working on experiments for the Large Electron-Positron (LEP) collider. [2] She remained at CERN for a decade, contributing to groundbreaking discoveries and earning a Ph.D. In Physics from the University of Glasgow in 1997, with her research focusing on radiation detectors and their medical applications. [2]
The Lazarus Effect and 3D Silicon Sensors
During her time at CERN, DaVià’s work led to a significant breakthrough: reviving radiation-damaged silicon sensors by cooling them to extremely low temperatures – a phenomenon known as the “Lazarus effect.” [1] These silicon sensors are crucial in collider experiments, acting as the “eyes” that capture the initial moments of particle creation.
Though, her most impactful contribution came with the development of 3D silicon sensors. Traditional planar silicon sensors were proving inadequate for the extreme radiation environments within advanced colliders. [1] DaVià’s research, in collaboration with Sherwood Parker, led to the creation of radiation-resistant and exceptionally prompt 3D sensors, revolutionizing particle tracking in high-energy physics. [2] This work is detailed in her co-authored book, Radiation Sensors With 3D Electrodes.
Collaboration as a Catalyst for Innovation
DaVià emphasizes that the success of the 3D silicon sensor wasn’t solely about the technology itself, but the collaborative approach she fostered. She brought together scientists, researchers, and even competing industry leaders to work towards a common goal. [1] This unprecedented level of industry collaboration, where companies exchanged proprietary information, accelerated the project’s progress.
Expanding Horizons: From Particle Physics to Climate Change
DaVià’s commitment to collaboration extends beyond particle physics. Inspired by discussions at the American Institute of Architects International and AIA Japan Osaka World Expo, she is now focused on applying her expertise to address the impacts of extreme weather events, particularly on vulnerable populations. [1]
She is actively involved in developing “smart shelters” powered by sustainable energy sources, building upon the IEEE-USA MOVE initiative, which provides portable power and communication solutions during disasters. [1] DaVià is organizing a conference at CERN in October to foster collaboration across disciplines and accelerate the development of deployable solutions for sustainable energy generation and storage. [1]
IEEE Involvement and Future Outlook
DaVià’s long-standing involvement with IEEE, dating back to her undergraduate years, has been instrumental in building her network and facilitating collaborations. [1] She is a Senior Member of IEEE, a distinguished lecturer, and actively participates in various IEEE societies, including the Society of Social Implications of Technology, the Power & Energy Society, and Women in Engineering. She received the 2022 WIE Outstanding Volunteer of the Year Award. [1]
DaVià currently divides her time between the University of Manchester and Stony Brook University, while maintaining an office at CERN and serving on the advisory board of IdeaSquare. [4] She also serves as the radiation detectors and imaging editor of Frontiers in Physics and co-chairs the European Union’s ATTRACT initiative. [2]
Cinzia DaVià’s career exemplifies the power of collaboration in driving scientific innovation and addressing global challenges. Her continued dedication to fostering connections across disciplines promises to yield further breakthroughs in the years to come.