The fem*MA Advancement Awards programme is now firmly established and offers much more than just support: it opens doors!

By integrating master's students directly into the institute’s research structures and working groups, the programme places them in the center of academic life. The winners collaborate closely with PraeDocs, PostDocs, and faculty members, gaining authentic insight into research, teamwork, and the realities of academia.

The idea is straightforward: offer real insight into academia, create connections, and encourage these talented women to consider taking the next step — pursuing a PhD and continuing their journey in research.

These were the two proud winners of the fem*MA Advancement Award 2025: Ettel Dina and Uka Shota.

Let's meet one of the two recipients of the fem*MA Advancement Award 2025 through an interview:

Dina Ettel

1. Can you briefly describe your academic journey, with a focus on your master thesis?

I am currently pursuing my Master’s degree in Technical Mathematics specialising in Applied Mathematics. I previously completed my Bachelor’s in Technical Mathematics also at TU Wien. Last year, I attended the seminar “Machine Learning and Uncertainty Quantification” led by Michael Feischl and Leila Taghizadeh. This led to the topic of my Master’s thesis, which is on a constructive proof of the Kolmogorov-Arnold representation theorem.

2. Have there been people who have supported you along the way? How have they helped you? 

Yes! My study colleagues Katharina, Nadja, and Benno have been good friends throughout the years, and I have learnt so much with and from them. I am also thankful for the encouragement and positive feedback from professors and teachers, which I think makes a big difference. In particular, I want to thank to my Bachelor’s advisors, Andreas Körner and Alexander Edthofer for their patience and appreciative way of communication. I am grateful to my Master’s advisor Michael Feischl, who always takes time for any questions. Furthermore, my parents and my brother are always there for me. Becoming part of fem*MA’s program has also been an encouragement and motivation.

3. How did you find out about the programme?

I received an email that was sent to all Master’s students in mathematics, informing us about the program.

4. When will you start the programme?

As I worked as a tutor during the fall semester a start date during this period was not possible. Thanks to the people of fem*MA who worked on finding a solution, I could still become part of the program. The plan is that I can get the scholarship for March and April 2026. However, I am grateful to my advisor that I already got a desk at the institute before.

5. Are you happy that this programme gives you a glimpse into academic life? What would you like to take away from this programme?

Yes, it has already given me new opportunities to meet many nice and interesting people. I also hope that it will help me with the decision what comes after my Master’s.