From Dreams and Crossroads to Scientific Success. Prof. Joanna Niedziółka-Jönsson Inspires Students at Multischool International School

On June 2, 2026, students of Multischool International School in Warsaw had a unique opportunity to meet Prof. Joanna Niedziółka-Jönsson, Chair of the Scientific Council of the Institute of Physical Chemistry, Polish Academy of Sciences (IChF). The event was organized as part of the “Girl Power. Strong Women, Inspiring Stories” program and brought together more than 50 students from the final years of primary school. The lecture hall was filled to capacity, and the event was opened by Headmistress Magdalena Małysa, who emphasized the importance of introducing young people to inspiring female role models and demonstrating that science can be a path to both personal fulfillment and professional success. 

Prof. Niedziółka-Jönsson delivered a captivating and passionate talk about dreams, courage, perseverance, and the decisions that shape one’s future. She guided students through her own journey - from her first experiences in science and laboratory internships, through doctoral studies and research career development, to leading research projects, heading her own research group, and eventually becoming Chair of the Scientific Council of IChF. Her story demonstrated that scientific success is rarely a straight path, but rather a series of choices, challenges, and unexpected turns. 

In an engaging and accessible way, she explained what qualities help people become successful scientists, why difficult decisions should not be feared, and how a scientific career is built - from the first often tentative steps into the world of research and laboratory practice, through doctoral studies and securing research grants, to establishing and leading an independent research group. She encouraged students to make educational and career choices based on a genuine understanding of themselves - their temperament, personality, strengths, and ambitions. A particularly important theme was a dilemma faced by many talented young people interested in science: whether to pursue a career in industry or remain in academia. Drawing on her own experience of exploring both paths, Prof. Niedziółka-Jönsson explained why she ultimately found science to be the more exciting, inspiring, and intellectually rewarding route. Students were also fascinated by stories from her research on graphene and on silver and gold nanoparticles. She showed how reducing materials to the nanoscale can dramatically alter their properties and even their colors, demonstrating that science often reveals surprising phenomena hidden within everyday materials. She also highlighted the many opportunities, resources, and cutting-edge tools available today to young people interested in exploring the world through science. 

One of the most memorable elements of the lecture was the comparison between a scientific career and mountain climbing. As an enthusiastic mountain lover, Prof. Niedziółka-Jönsson described the challenges of reaching mountain summits and drew parallels with the path toward scientific achievement. She emphasized that both pursuits require determination, resilience, patience, and the ability to learn from setbacks. 

The lecture was met with an exceptionally warm reception. At its conclusion, students and teachers rewarded the speaker with a long ovation, while the school leadership presented her with gifts and a certificate of appreciation in recognition of her contribution to the program. Teachers and members of the school community also attended the event. 

The question-and-answer session proved equally inspiring. Students asked numerous thoughtful, creative, and sometimes unexpected questions about science, research careers, motivation, everyday life in the laboratory, as well as personal interests and hobbies. The discussion continued far beyond the planned schedule, reflecting the curiosity and enthusiasm of the audience. All students who actively participated received small gifts from the Institute of Physical Chemistry PAS, including branded bags, pens, and pencils. 

We are delighted that initiatives such as this allow us to bring science closer to young people and demonstrate that a career in research can be both meaningful and exciting. We would like to thank the entire Multischool International School community for their warm welcome, inspiring atmosphere, and shared commitment to encouraging the next generation of scientists. 

Multischool Instagram profile: @multischool_official.

IChF creates rules and working conditions that support the development of scientific careers — including women’s careers — because the future of science requires equal and transparent development opportunities. This is recognized by the “HR Excellence in Research” award.