From Spain to Synchrotrons: Celebrating the Inspiring Journey of Professor Sofia Diaz-Moreno

As we celebrate International Women's Day, it is a perfect time to honour the remarkable journey of Sofia Diaz-Moreno, who has recently been made a professor at the University of Kent. Her story is one of passion, perseverance, and profound impact in the field of science.

Sofia's passion for science began in her secondary school in Spain. At just 16 years old, a challenging chemistry teacher named Aurora set a test that would change Sofia's life. One question asked how to separate iron particles from sugar. While most students suggested dissolving the sugar in water, Sofia's innovative mind thought of using a magnet. This moment of thinking outside the box ignited her love for science. "That day, I thought – this is what I want to do," Sofia recalls. Aurora's influence was so profound that years later, on request by the school, Sofia returned to talk to the students about her career in science and told the teacher in an affectionate exchange "You do know, this is all your fault."

That day, I thought – this is what I want to do.

Academic Pursuits and Early Challenges

Sofia's academic journey took her to the University of Seville, where she studied inorganic chemistry. In her final year, she received a grant to assist a professor in their department, which led to her first trip to Daresbury to conduct synchrotron radiation experiments. This experience solidified her desire to stay in science.

Despite personal challenges, which nearly kept her at home in Spain, Sofia's determination never wavered. She secured a postdoctoral position at the ESRF, where she faced the intimidating task of giving her first talk at interview in English. She then moved on to work as a beamline scientist at the facility. Her perseverance paid off, and she continued to thrive in the international environment she loved, even meeting her long-term partner which eventually took her to the UK.

Building a Legacy at Diamond

Sofia's career at Diamond Light Source began with building beamlines, a journey that saw her transition from a user of synchrotrons to a beamline scientist and eventually to a leader in the field.

Her work on I20, despite its challenges, resulted in a beamline recognised as one of the best in the world for spectroscopy. "It was painful and very hard, but we achieved what we set out to do," Sofia proudly states. Her leadership and dedication have made the spectroscopy group at Diamond internationally renowned, for which she is very proud.

Overcoming Cultural Differences

Moving from Europe to the UK brought its own set of cultural challenges. Sofia shares amusing anecdotes, like the time she was unsure if she was invited to have cake on a colleague's birthday. However, she also highlights the greater opportunities and flexibility in the UK, which allowed her and her partner to thrive in their careers. "In Spain, you study one thing and end up working in that area – you don’t deviate. This flexibility in the UK is great," she notes.

Recognised for Her Contributions

Sofia's contributions to the field of spectroscopy have not gone unnoticed. Her recent accolade of being made a professor at the University of Kent is a testament to her impact. Silvia Ramos, Head of the School of Engineering, Mathematics and Physics at the University of Kent and a key figure in the development of Diamond-II’s new beamlines, praised Sofia for doing more in recent years for the spectroscopy community in the UK than anyone else. This recognition is a source of immense pride for Sofia, who continues to inspire the next generation of scientists. She is currently the Chair of the Commission on XAFS of the International Union of Crystallography, and in July, she will assume the role of Chair of the Executive Committee of the International X-ray Absorption Society, a position she describes as "an incredible honour." This accolade is particularly meaningful as it comes from the votes of her peers.

Advocating for Women in Science

As a successful woman in science, Sofia is passionate about ensuring equal opportunities for all. She reflects on the challenges women face and the importance of diversity in science. "Science is all about diversity of ideas and different points of view – this is how things advance," she emphasises. Sofia's efforts to encourage women to pursue careers in science and her commitment to fostering an inclusive environment are truly commendable.

A Message to Her Younger Self

Looking back on her journey, Sofia has a powerful message for her younger self: "Do it – it’s worth it!" Despite the sacrifices and difficult moments, she believes that the rewards of a career in science are unique and fulfilling.

Her mantra throughout her career has been ‘Nothing is impossible, and if it’s not impossible, then we are going to do it!’ Her story is a testament to the power of perseverance and passion.

Inspiring women in science

Sofia's journey from a curious student in Spain to a leading figure in the field of spectroscopy is a story of resilience, innovation, and inspiration. As we celebrate International Women's Day, her achievements remind us of the incredible contributions women make to science and the importance of supporting and encouraging the next generation of female scientists. In her own words to her young niece she says ‘you can do whatever you want!’.