Dr. Scorza-Lesch: Making quantum physics tangible for young people now!

Dr. Scorza-Lesch: Making quantum physics tangible for young people now!

Quantum physics is making great leaps forward, and we owe this not least to scientists like Dr. Cecilia Scorza-Lesch. Last November, the astrophysicist received the Federal Cross of Merit at the Ludwig Maximilians University (LMU) in Munich. A decoration that recognizes their outstanding contributions to science education and research in the natural sciences. Especially now, at a time when the 2025 Nobel Prize in Physics went to three quantum researchers, it is particularly pleasing to have such a committed scientist in our ranks. [merkur.de] reports that Dr. Scorza-Lesch not only shines as a researcher, but is also actively involved in educational projects in physics.

The scientist, born in Hamburg in 1961, grew up in England and Venezuela and studied at the Universidad de los Andes in Venezuela. She received her doctorate in 1993 at the University of Heidelberg, where she worked on the structure and kinematics of elliptical galaxies. Dr. Scorza-Lesch began educational and public relations work at the Heidelberg State Observatory in 2001 and has been involved in numerous projects to stimulate interest in astronomy. For example, she developed “Universe in the Box” in 2005 as part of the “Universe Awareness Program”. Between 2009 and 2011 she was able to exert a decisive influence on the planning of the House of Astronomy at the Max Planck Institute for Astronomy. She then coordinated the EU project “European Universe Awareness Programs” and many other educational offerings at the University of Heidelberg until 2016.

A heart for education

In Munich, Dr. Scorza-Lesch continued her commitment. Founded at LMU, their astronomy school offers programs for both teachers and students. A notable example of her initiative is the project “Climate Change: Understanding and Acting,” which she developed together with her husband, Professor Harald Lesch. This program promotes a better understanding of the Earth and the pressing issues of sustainable development. There are also projects such as “The Climate Suitcase” and “The Blue Pearl”, which provide free material for schools thanks to a generous donation from the Sparkasse Foundation.

For young people, Dr. Scorza-Lesch published the book “Quantum Physics for Pedestrians” to give them an understanding of the often complex matter of quantum physics. She emphasizes the central role of the Earth as the only habitable planet and, at the same time, researches the formation of the universe and the search for exoplanets. She is convinced that understanding the subtle connections of quantum physics is of enormous relevance in a technological world; The rules of this science have enabled many developments in technology, from smartphones to state-of-the-art CT and MRI machines to powerful computers.

A look at the quantum physics community

However, the situation for young female physicists in the field of quantum physics is not always rosy. Many talented female researchers have had to leave universities because there are not enough job offers. Dr. Scorza-Lesch is aware of such challenges and is committed to the visibility and promotion of female talent in physics. Their pioneering role in astronomy and education is all the more an important signal for the future generation.

On November 8th, the Faculty of Physics at LMU is hosting a Quantum Physics Day, an opportunity for those interested to learn more about the fascinating concepts and developments in this field. Congresses and events help to promote exchange between science and education.

Dr. Cecilia Scorza-Lesch is a prime example of those scientists who not only explore scientific fields with passion, enthusiasm and commitment, but also want to make them accessible to everyone. Time to come will show how their approaches and programs to education will shape future generative attitudes toward quantum physics and the role of the Earth.