Physicist of the Month

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

June 2026

Karin Wiesauer, Head of the Medical Physics Organizational Unit at Ordensklinikum Linz

About myself and my research

In addition to many other interests, I have always been fascinated by technology. This led me to study Technical Physics in Linz, followed by a PhD in semiconductor physics. Throughout this time, I was always supported by my parents’ confidence that I could succeed. Afterwards, I worked for nearly 10 years in applied research, focusing on optical coherence tomography and terahertz technology. I became aware of the field of medical physics rather by chance, and it quickly became clear to me that this was the path I wanted to pursue. While working, I completed the postgraduate university program in medical physics in Vienna and, immediately after graduating, obtained a position as a medical physicist at the Hospital of the Sisters of Charity in Linz. I have now been working at Ordensklinikum for 13 years and have been heading the Medical Physics organizational unit there for about 3 years. Although often largely unknown, medical physicists work in hospitals, particularly in areas where ionizing radiation is used, such as radiation therapy, radiology, and nuclear medicine. My team of 18 includes not only medical physicists, but also radiological technologists involved in treatment planning and a medical informatics specialist. What makes working as a medical physicist so rewarding is the clear sense of purpose: every day we contribute to the safe and optimized treatment of patients. At the same time, we collaborate closely with various professional groups in a highly dynamic environment with constant technological developments, which makes the work diverse and exciting.

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

There are two experiences from my studies that I still remember today. First, I was asked whether technical physics might not be too difficult a field of study for a woman. My response, “No more difficult than for a man,” made my counterpart pause and ultimately realize that I was right. The second situation gave me much more to think about—especially since the statement came from a woman: she told me that, as a woman, it was irresponsible to choose such a course of study, because it would not be compatible with having a family. All of this happened decades ago, yet I still have the impression that such views remain deeply rooted in our society. Achieving greater equality of opportunity in physics requires a stronger sense of normality—that women have the same interest and talent in technical fields and are equally represented in them. This requires support, and it must begin early: in kindergarten and school through appropriately trained educators, in university through targeted support programs for women, and ultimately, if necessary, through quotas in professional life. From my experience, when women are considered less frequently in hiring processes, it is generally not due to lower qualifications. Personally, I never felt I had fewer opportunities as a woman, because I was fortunate to encounter people during my studies and career for whom this equality was simply the norm—and whom I would now describe as mentors. Such individuals are also extremely important for achieving equal opportunities in physics. I believe both men and women share responsibility in this regard. But I would especially like to say to girls and women: do not let supposed stereotypes hold you back—follow your interests!

If you would like to learn more about DI Dr. Karin Wiesauer, MSc. and her work, you can find the link to her LinkedIn profile here, the link to her XING profile here, as well as the link to the Department of Radiation Oncology at Ordensklinikum on its website here.