There are people who don’t simply share science they illuminate it. Caroline is one of them. With a background in Mathematics and Physics for teaching, she found her path into outreach almost by chance, during her time as a student assistant at the DESY Schülerlabor. A single lecture about the IceCube experiment lit a spark that would define her career. Since then, Caroline has embraced a role that bridges two passions: the depth of physics research and the joy of inspiring young minds.

At DESY, she guides students and the general public toward the excitement of discovery, not just by telling them what science is, but by showing them how science is done. From international initiatives like the International Cosmic Day to mentoring young interns, Caroline gives others access to astroparticle physics in its most meaningful form through curiosity, collaboration, and hands-on experience.

In this interview, she tells us how her journey began, what experiences have marked her the most, and which message she wants to pass on to the next generation of scientists and explorers.

1. Can you introduce yourself and share how you became involved in the world of scientific outreach? 

I studied Mathematics and Physics for teaching, and my journey into scientific outreach began when I worked as a student assistant at the DESY Schülerlabor. One day, there was a special program, and I attended a lecture about the IceCube experiment. I was immediately fascinated and thought, “This is where I want to work!”. My heart has always been torn between science and teaching. DESY offered me the perfect middle ground. Today, I am proud to continue this path as a scientific staff member at DESY, combining my passion for physics with engaging and inspiring students and the public through outreach.

2. What has been the most meaningful outreach activity you’ve organized or participated in, and why?

The most meaningful outreach activity I have participated in has been the International Cosmic Day (ICD), which I consider an outstanding event. It allows students from all over the world to engage directly with real scientific research. Over the years, I have also built strong relationships with colleagues who share the same goals in their work as I do. Collaborating with them to organize and run this event for young people is extremely motivating. Being part of a program that not only teaches science but also fosters international collaboration and curiosity made it a truly impactful experience for me. Seeing students analyze actual cosmic ray data, ask questions, and experience the excitement of discovery firsthand makes the ICD an exceptional highlight of my outreach work.

3. What inspires you the most about sharing particle physics with the public?  

What inspires me most about sharing astroparticle physics with the public is seeing people’s eyes light up when they discover something completely new—like cosmic rays—for the first time. I love it when people learn something new and realize that they can understand it themselves. I also enjoy showing them how science is actually done, how questions are explored, and how discoveries are made. It’s amazing to see them recognize that science isn’t some distant, inaccessible world, but a dynamic, fascinating process that we can all engage with. 

4. What is the most important message you would like to convey to younger generations through your outreach efforts?

What motivates me even more are the young people who come to me for internships. Being able to mentor them intensively for two weeks and watch how much they grow and develop in that short time is incredibly rewarding and energizes me in my work. That sense of wonder and curiosity in others is what makes outreach truly inspiring for me.

That sense of wonder and curiosity in others is what makes outreach truly inspiring for me.

4. The most important message I would like to convey to younger generations is to really think about what truly interests them. When you find something that excites you, believe in yourself, stay focused, and pursue it consistently. Passion and curiosity are often the foundation for success, and with dedication, you can achieve great things. Your own interest and drive are what will carry you forward, even when challenges arise.