Minerva’s daughters are not afraid of technology

Elke Dreher works in the Chrystallography Department of the MPI für Kohlenforschung

Even during her school days, Elke Dreher knew that she wanted to pursue a career in the natural sciences. A career counseling session ultimately prompted her to try her luck as a physics laboratory assistant.

Elke Dreher works as a laboratory assistant in the Crystallography Department. Together with her colleagues, she is responsible for measuring and analyzing samples from the scientific departments. Her time at the MPI für Kohlenforschung began 38 years ago.

What brought you here? Tell us about your way to the Kohlenforschung!
Elke Dreher: To be honest, it was a coincidence. At school, I had physics and mathematics as advanced courses, and I was very interested in working in the natural sciences. During a career guidance session, I was shown jobs as a materials tester and as a physics laboratory assistant. I applied for an apprenticeship as a physics laboratory assistant at the Institute – and fortunately, I was accepted. Since I had my A-levels and was able to shorten the training, I was able to take the exam after just two and a half years – and after that, I stayed.

What do you like about your work?
Elke: The goal of the measurements we perform here in crystallography is always the same, but the way to get there can vary greatly. Moreover, the methodology doesn't change either. But the technology we work with has developed tremendously. Today we can measure samples that we couldn't even have dreamt of measuring 30 years ago! That is what makes the job so exciting for me, it never gets boring. Besides, the working atmosphere at the institute is very good, and I have come to know the Kohlenforschung as a very family-friendly employer. When I have had to take care of the children, it has never been a problem.

What are your professional goals?
Elke: I do not really have a specific goal. I just never want to lose the desire for my work, come to the institute every day and always work to deliver good results.

What has been your most difficult professional step so far?
Elke: After my training as a laboratory assistant, I thought about whether I should do further training to become a physics technician. However, at the time, that would have meant moving to Karlsruhe. In the end, I decided to focus on my family and against further professional development. I have never regretted this decision, but it was also a stressful time when the children were still small.

Do you have a role model?
Elke: I don't really have a role model. Sometimes I find myself wondering, I have to admit self-critically, how, for example, Ursula von der Leyen manages to reconcile her large family with her time-consuming political career. You would never ask yourself that about a man! I find all women admirable who manage their lives well, both at work and in the family.

What advice would you give to young girls who are interested in working in a scientific institution?
Elke: I would advise young women not to doubt themselves too much. Have confidence in yourself and don't be afraid of technology or numbers. I think young people today have a wide range of opportunities to find out about professions and pursue their careers – and women should take advantage of these opportunities!

If you had one wish: what would it be?
Elke: In my private life, I hope that my health will finally get back on track. In general, I would like it to no longer be a surprise when women manage to balance children and careers – just look at the von der Leyen family!