Maria Flores Ceballos is a predoctoral researcher in the Laser and Photonics Applications Group (ALF) at the University of Salamanca. Her research focuses on Artificial Intelligence and Nonlinear Optics.
This interview was originally conducted in Spanish and translated using an automatic translator. Original here
Tell us a little about your current line of research
I research Optical Neural Networks, which are neural network models where the hidden layers are replaced by a nonlinear physical phenomenon, in this case, optical in nature. These networks may offer potential energy efficiency advantages compared to current hardware.
What inspired you to choose a career in science or research?
Since childhood I have always felt a strong affinity for mathematics and I could not imagine living or working away from it.
What do you enjoy most about your day-to-day life as a scientist?
To work on something that I am truly passionate about and that I feel called to do.
Which part do you find the most difficult or challenging?
Repeating tests, learning relatively basic things like presenting the results you obtain visually and concisely, learning to write formally in accordance with the expected scientific level, etc.
What obstacles have you faced as a woman in the scientific or academic field?
A significant lack of role models, both in terms of literature and the teaching staff.
What advice or message would you like to share with girls and young women who dream of pursuing a career in science?
They should seek support and mentors from other female scientists because they can help and guide them on their path.
If you could describe science in one sentence, what would it be?
Science is born from joy and curiosity