Physicist of the Month

Are you a physicist and would like to introduce yourself and your research? Don't hesitate to write to us at chancengleichheit@oepg.at!

October 2025

Barbara Stadlober, Physicist & Research Group Leader at Joanneum Research

About myself and my research

I studied experimental physics at the University of Graz in the 1980s and 1990s – my thesis was on the then highly topical subject of high-temperature superconductors, which I investigated using phononic Raman scattering. I remained faithful to this topic during my doctoral thesis, but not to the KFU – I went to the Walther Meissner Institute in Garching to do electronic Raman scattering on the HTCs – it was an exciting time.

After completing my doctorate, I worked at Infineon Technologies for six years (and had two children during that time) – but research never left me, so I seized a great opportunity in 2002 to set up a research group at Joanneum Research, which is now called Hybrid Electronics and Patterning and comprises 25–28 scientists. We deal with printed electronics and large-area micro- and nanostructuring, as well as all aspects of these topics, from the development of new materials, processes and devices to electronics and applications. Practical application plays a major role for us, and we are delighted when our research results are physically reflected in reality, whether as part of a product or a process flow.

What can be done to achieve more equal opportunities in physics? 

We have a very good atmosphere in the group, and a great mix both in terms of disciplines (physicists, chemists, biologists, electrical engineers, geologists, process engineers, etc.) and in terms of age and background. It is important to me that everyone does what they want to do and what they are good at. I don't believe in treating everyone the same – everyone needs their own niche where they feel comfortable, then they can be productive. This works very well in a sufficiently large group like mine – I also have many permanent employees who have been at the institute for several years. But of course there are also students. For women (and for men at our institute), it is important to have complete flexibility in working hours. Many children have been born in my group, and contrary to popular belief, parental leave has no negative effect on scientific productivity. Sometimes it's good to clear your head at home – children ask clever questions. I have several scientists who work part-time (50-80%) and do research, and they enjoy it and produce very good results.

I have not personally experienced any inequality. However, I have carefully selected my superiors and mentors and have also turned down career opportunities when I was not convinced by the human qualities of those involved.

If you would like to find out more about Barbara Stadlober and her work, here is the link to her website profile at Joanneum Research, here is her LinkedIn profile, here is her ORCID profile and here is the link to the working group she heads.