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In this article, we introduce you to Konstantina Koliogeorgi who participates in both projects, RefMap and ImAFUSA from the Institute of Communication and Computer Systems of the National Technical University of Athens. As a part of our campaign “Women In Aviation Science”, she answered several questions, such as how she got involved in the projects, which roles she has undertaken, and the importance of gender diversity in her field. Let’s read what she had to say.
Can you introduce yourself and describe your role within the ImAFUSA & REFMAP project? What sparked your interest in joining these projects?
My name is Konstantina Koliogeorgi. I am a computer engineer focusing on high-performance computing and I am currently a post-doctoral researcher at ICCS. Being a part of RefMap and ImAFUSA projects allows me to leverage my expertise and skills in a use case such as sustainable aviation that can have a positive impact on the environment and society.
In RefMap in particular, I will apply my knowledge of HPC optimisation techniques to accelerate CFD solvers and optimize inference models that predict airflow. In ImAFUSA, I will contribute to creating a robust and efficient predictive model for visual pollution assessment of drones within urban environments.
Diverse representation ensures that research and innovations address a broader range of societal needs and concerns.
In your role within ImAFUSA & REFMAP, how do you contribute to the project's mission?
In RefMap, optimising and accelerating solvers enables the gathering of training data that would otherwise be generated in prohibitive time frames. These data are essential for training inference models for flow prediction and trajectory optimisation that minimizes the environmental footprint.
In ImAFUSA, my role in creating an inference model that predicts visual pollution will help secure the acceptance and adoption of urban air mobility.
As a woman working on two projects, what are your thoughts on the importance of gender diversity in this field?
Gender diversity in scientific groups is important in reflecting the diversity of our society. Diverse representation ensures that research and innovations address a broader range of societal needs and concerns.
Are there any women in the same field who have inspired you in your career? How have they influenced your path?
Seeing women professors during my undergraduate and Ph.D. studies has been very inspiring for my career. Their presence as accomplished researchers and educators in a male-dominant environment has shown me that women can thrive in academic settings and have successful research careers.
Women's leadership plays an important role in increasing the visibility and highlighting the participation and achievements of women in the field.
ImAFUSA & REFMAP may have women in leadership positions. Can you share your perspective on the importance of women holding leadership roles in projects like this?
Women's leadership plays an important role in increasing the visibility and highlighting the participation and achievements of women in the field. It helps to break down stereotypes and biases that exist in the scientific community and challenges preconceived notions about who can excel in science. It can serve as inspiration for other women and help create a more inclusive environment for all individuals.
As a woman in science, how do you hope to inspire other women and girls to pursue careers in similar fields?
I strongly believe that the best way to inspire other women is by example. Being visible in the scientific community, showcasing achievements and sharing experiences can serve as an example for other women and girls, demonstrating that success in science is achievable. Furthermore, sharing success stories of women in science across various platforms can communicate the possibilities and opportunities available, encouraging others to pursue their aspirations.