Yuliya Hoika 
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On the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, we highlight the inspiring journeys of two female scientists from AstroCeNT: PhD student Clea Sunny and Postdoctoral Researcher Azam Zabihi. They share their thoughts on what science means to them, what excites them the most, and their biggest dreams for the future.
Postdoctoral Researcher Azam Zabihi
What is science for you?
For me, science is a powerful tool for understanding the world at its most fundamental level. It’s a never-ending pursuit of knowledge that crosses boundaries—whether unraveling the mysteries of the universe or tackling challenges in human health. Through physics, I explore the invisible forces that shape everything around us, and through innovation, I work to turn discoveries into real-world impact. Science isn’t just about finding answers; it’s about constantly asking new questions that push the limits of what we know.
What excites you the most about it?
What excites me most is the intersection of theory and innovation, particularly when fundamental physics leads to groundbreaking advancements that directly benefit society. Science is not just about understanding the universe; it is about applying that knowledge to solve real-world challenges.
From medical applications to energy solutions, physics plays a crucial role in shaping the future. Research is being conducted to explore how nuclear medicine and radiation therapy can contribute to the fight against cancer, improving treatment precision and minimizing side effects. Advances in radiation physics are leading to the development of safer, more effective therapies that can save lives. At the same time, cutting-edge technologies are being explored to develop new materials for energy production, enhance radiation protection, and even contribute to climate solutions, such as reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Being part of this journey—where science transforms from theory to tangible innovations that impact healthcare, energy, and the environment—is what excites me the most.
What is your biggest dream?
My biggest dream is to drive groundbreaking advancements in both fundamental and applied physics, especially in medical physics and technologies that improve lives. I want to help shape the future of healthcare—particularly in cancer treatment and diagnostics—by harnessing the power of physics. Beyond that, I hope to inspire the next generation of scientists, especially women, to push boundaries and explore how science and innovation can change the world.
PhD Student Clea Sunny
What is science for you?
My interest in science began in 6th grade, sparked by my science teacher. She encouraged me to question everything in daily life: why apples are red, why the sky is blue, or why eating a banana helps with digestion. Over time, I realized that asking “why?” multiple times often left people puzzled. I still remember making my mom pause when, as a young child, I asked her what exists “above” our Sun. The answers to all my “interesting” questions led me to science. I love exploring it, regardless of the field, because it provides answers to almost everything—making it endlessly fascinating.
What excites you the most about it?
The mere fact that science is challenging excites me the most. I believe that anyone who has learned to question the simple things in life never gets bored because the questions are never-ending! It took the human race hundreds of years to discover many fundamental facts. Even now, despite all we have learned, there is still so much we don’t know. How could anyone get bored when the subject is endlessly challenging?
What is your biggest dream?
This question is so difficult to answer! If someone had asked me this question 15 years ago, I would have said my biggest dream was to become an astronaut. Those were fun times—back when I didn’t know my limitations! But I’m truly happy that I at least pursued a career in that direction. Not everyone follows their passion, and I’m grateful that I did. Studying astrophysics was one of my biggest dreams, and I’ll always be proud that I achieved it.
As for my next dream? It’s simple: to choose a career that never bores me. And if I can inspire kids to love science, that would be an achievement I’d truly cherish!
Interview by Yuliya Hoika
