To celebrate the 50th anniversary of women obtaining the right to vote in Switzerland, the National Centres of Competence in Research (NCCR) will introduce you to women working in Swiss research institutes. Today we invite you to meet Ivana Domljanovic, a scientist and a professional basketball player at the same time!
Did you always know you wanted to pursue a career in science?
I have always wanted to work in the medical field since I was a little kid. I was always fascinated by the human body and how it works.
What do you like about your field of research?
In the field of medical science, we study and research human health and the prevention and treatment of disease. Fundamentally our studies expand our understanding, make the impossible possible, and help us build a better future for all people.
As a woman, have you always been in the minority? and if so, has this been a problem? an anecdote, positive or negative?
Yes, a woman and as a woman in science who is also a professional athlete, I have been always a minority. However, for me that was never a problem, I never allowed myself to use that as an excuse. I just wanted to be the best version of myself. That goal put me where I am now.
As a woman and a scientist, do you consider that you can be a role model for young people who would like to follow in your footsteps?
Considering my pathway and experience, I think I can inspire young people to never give up on something they love. Even if they want to be at the same time a professional athlete and a medical doctor, scientist, trader, or whatever fulfills their potential.
Did you have a role model that allowed you to become who you are today? Or on the contrary, did you miss this model?
I always look up to my parents. They were my role models and without them, I would not be who I am today.
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