Cinzia DaVià, a distinguished physicist, attributes her professional success to a strong commitment to collaboration. As a professor at the University of Manchester in England and a research professor at Stony Brook University in New York, her work spans various fields, from high-energy particle physics to sustainable energy solutions. DaVià’s collaborative approach is evident in her contributions to projects at CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research, where she has been involved in groundbreaking experiments.
Her academic journey began in the Italian Dolomites, where a documentary series sparked her interest in astrophysics. After earning her degree from the University of Bologna, she completed a summer internship at CERN, assisting in the construction of the Large Electron-Positron (LEP) collider. This experience significantly shaped her career direction, leading her to focus on radiation instrumentation rather than her initial interest in astronomy.
DaVià spent a decade at CERN, where her research led to several pivotal discoveries, including advancements in radiation hardness of silicon sensors at cryogenic temperatures, known in the field as the Lazarus effect. These sensors play a critical role in capturing the initial moments of particle creation during collider experiments. Through her efforts, DaVià contributed to the development of 3D silicon sensors that withstand extreme radiation, revolutionizing the field.
Leading Innovative Solutions for Climate Challenges
Beyond her contributions to particle physics, DaVià is also deeply invested in addressing the impacts of climate change on vulnerable populations. Her engagement with the American Institute of Architects International and the AIA Japan Osaka World Expo in June 2023 inspired her to lead initiatives focused on “smart shelters” that provide power and communication capabilities during natural disasters. This initiative builds on the MOVE program, which equips disaster-affected communities with essential resources.
In October 2023, DaVià will host a two-day conference at CERN aimed at fostering sustainable entrepreneurship. The event will encourage interdisciplinary collaboration among IEEE members and external experts to develop deployable solutions for energy generation and storage. She believes that gathering diverse perspectives is essential for creating effective responses to global challenges.
DaVià’s commitment to collaboration extends to her role with the IEEE, where she has been active since her undergraduate years. As a senior member of the organization, she has received accolades such as the 2022 WIE Outstanding Volunteer of the Year Award. Her ongoing participation in IEEE and its various groups, including the Women in Engineering initiative, underscores her dedication to building networks that facilitate innovation.
Mentoring the Next Generation of Scientists
Currently, DaVià balances her responsibilities between two universities while maintaining an office at CERN, where she mentors students involved in particle physics research. As the radiation detectors and imaging editor for Frontiers in Physics, she also co-chairs the European Union’s ATTRACT initiative, which promotes advancements in radiation imaging research across Europe.
Throughout her career, she has coauthored over 900 publications, showcasing her contributions to both theoretical and practical advancements in physics. DaVià emphasizes that the success of any project reflects the collective efforts of all involved, stating, “The people involved in any project are really the ones to be celebrated.”
In her view, the power of collaboration lies in the diverse ideas and solutions that emerge when individuals from different disciplines come together. By championing this collaborative spirit, Cinzia DaVià not only advances her own research but also paves the way for future innovations in physics and beyond.
