For almost 30 years, NMT days has invited upper-secondary students and teachers to a week filled with popular-science lectures and inspiring demonstrations in science, medicine, and technology. The aim is to spark curiosity, show how exciting and useful these subjects can be, and inspire future studies.
Sofie Ceberg, Senior Lecturer in Medical Radiation Physics, has been part of NMT days for more than a decade. Here, she shares five reasons why she believes more researchers should seize the opportunity to take part.
1. It’s incredibly rewarding to meet curious young minds
“A day instantly gets even better after meeting upper secondary school students during the NMT days! They’re so curious, ask lots of questions, and genuinely want to understand. I always try to make time for conversations and adjust the level based on their questions – it usually leads to really great interactions.”
2. A chance to show how fun and relevant science is
“Many young people don’t realise how directly applicable scientific thinking is in society. Through NMT days, we can show how research in, for example, medical radiation physics actually makes a difference for people and hopefully inspire more of them to pursue science.”
3. Role models matter
“One thing I didn’t think much about at first, but that has become increasingly important, is highlighting diversity in academia. As a woman in a technical and medical field, it feels good to help more young women see themselves here. Representation opens doors and the more diverse role models there are, the more people can feel included.”
4. Communication is part of being a researcher
“Engaging with society is incredibly important. We might be brilliant researchers, but if we don’t share our results, we’re not having the impact we could. I enjoy meeting younger audiences just as much as older ones, but what’s special about NMT days is that the students have chosen to be there. That makes a real difference to the conversation.”
5. It creates ripples
“Several students have later told me that they saw my lecture at NMT days and that it influenced their choice of study – which is wonderful to hear! For me, it shows how valuable these meetings are, not only with students but also with other researchers involved in the week. Research is ultimately about collaboration and interdisciplinarity, and NMT days is a great reminder of how many paths and skills come together at Lund University.”
And will you be taking part again next year?
“Of course! I’m already looking forward to it,” says Sofie Ceberg with a smile.
Interview by Cecilia Schubert, Communication Officer, Faculty of Science.