Soapbox Science 2025

Soapbox: Did you choose a scientific career or did the scientific career choose you? Can you tell us about your journey into the world of science and what inspired you to pursue your particular field?

Jasmin Häberle: After high school, I didn’t initially choose to go into science. I started studying to become a teacher in physics / mathematics – and I fell head over heels for physics. It was so fascinating that I decided to study the science degree alongside my teaching bachelor’s.
I’ve always believed teaching is one of the most important jobs and is a way to give back to society. So I actually had a hard time switching fully to research / a sole Master of Science, despite really enjoying studying it. Over time, though, I realized the importance of research and found a field in which the impact is rather direct: biomedical physics/engineering, especially optics. Now, I am in research and enjoy explaining what I do.

Soapbox: What do you think is the most fascinating aspect of your research/work? Can you share a memorable or rewarding moment from your career that illustrates the impact of scientific research on society?

Jasmin: For me, the most fascinating aspect is how much we still don’t know about the human body. We are so complex that despite the progress research has made, we don’t even fully understand the cells that make us, let alone how they are organized. The deeper we look, the less we understand. But that’s what makes it so fascinating. And we are working on understanding, in my case, specific diseases. In doing this, we will hopefully improve lives.
A rewarding moment for me was speaking to my neighbor – they happen to have inflammatory bowel disease, the disease we are researching. Explaining our research and giving them the feeling that they are less left alone directly shows the impact our research can have.

Soapbox: What attracted you to Soapbox Science in the first place? Sum up your expectation of the Soapbox Event in three words.

Jasmin: I believe it is our responsibility as scientists to communicate our research. And I believe it is highly important to showcase women in science to challenge the image scientists have and to inspire women to work in science. Soapbox combines both aspects.

Motivation, Science, Women

Soapbox: What role do you believe science communication plays in bridging the gap between researchers and the general public?

Jasmin: Science communication is the main bridge over this gap. For me, science communication encompasses everything where we, as scientists, are addressing the general public. And I believe it is highly important that we do. We are working for society, and as such, we should share our outcomes – whether it is technologies, knowledge, or insights.
When communication is insufficient, it can lead to mistrust in science and scientists, and understandably so. We can prevent this by prioritizing science communication and strengthening the connection between science and society.

Soapbox: What misconceptions do you think people often have about scientists, and how do you aim to change those perceptions?

Jasmin: Scientists are male, they are geniuses and completely detached from reality. Shows like The Big Bang Theory have made being a nerdy scientist part of pop culture, but have added to these stereotypes. I have often received comments like: ‘You are studying physics? Don’t take me wrong, you don’t look like a physicist.’, ‘Maybe not you, but physicists are a bunch of weird people, don’t you think?’
I couldn’t disagree more. Physicists and, in general, scientists are humans, just like anyone else, only with a passion for science. We are as diverse as society itself – and we need to show it. I believe that perception can only be changed when we present ourselves as humans in all our facets.

Soapbox: How do you think diversity and inclusion in the scientific community contribute to innovation and progress?

Jasmin: In science, we work with the unknown. We are often the first to test, build, or measure something. Therefore, we need a variety of ideas and need to consider multiple perspectives. What better way to achieve this than through diversity and inclusion?

Soapbox: What advice would you give to someone interested in pursuing a career in science, particularly young women who may be hesitant to enter the field?

Jasmin: If you love science, do it! I know a lot of amazing women in science, you will not be alone.

Soapbox: What is your day-to-day scientific-superpower and how does it help you with your work?

Jasmin: If I had to name one scientific superpower, it would be my team. While we all work on our own projects, scientific exchange, discussions, and emotional support are extremely important. My team has changed over the years but without the people around me – sharing ideas, motivation and knowledge – I would not be where I am today.

Soapbox: Do you have any fascinating do-it-at-home experiments, books, podcasts, or talks that you’d suggest for a good laugh or some interesting insights?

Jasmin: Related to my work: You can buy fluorescent markers (usually called UV markers), write something down, and – under black light / UV light – magically reveal the writing. That’s perfect for treasure hunts, etc. Also, tonic water is fluorescent under UV light, so you can even hide clues in a drink.
In general, totally unrelated to my work, one of my favorite child-friendly DIY experiments is mixing cornstarch and water to create non-Newtonian fluids. You hit it and it feels solid; you slowly let it flow between your fingers, and it behaves like a liquid. It’s super easy to set up, a bit messy, and a lot of fun. I love it!