Hello Mavi – congratulations on your appointment as Early Career Scientist Union Representative! Could you introduce yourself to our readers?
Thank you so much, Simon! I’m a physicist by training, but my path has evolved at the intersection of the physical sciences and the social sciences. I started in theoretical physics and today I work on disaster risk, climate hazards, and science–policy communication.
Along the way, I also completed advanced training in mediation and science communication, because I strongly believe that understanding risk is not only about data, it’s about people. I’m naturally curious, very energetic, and probably a bit incapable of staying still for too long. I care deeply about building bridges between disciplines, and I approach science with both rigor and empathy.
What does the Early Career Scientist Union Representative do?
The Early Career Scientist Union Representative works to ensure that early career scientists have a real voice within EGU. It means listening carefully, bringing forward ideas and concerns, and helping shape initiatives that support professional growth across disciplines. For me, it’s also about creating spaces where people feel seen and heard. Early career stages can be exciting but also uncertain and having someone at the table who understands that makes a difference.
What drew you to volunteer with EGU?
EGU has been part of my professional home for years. I’ve presented my research there, engaged in Science for Policy activities, and connected with inspiring colleagues from very different fields. I’ve always loved its interdisciplinary spirit and openness. Volunteering felt like a natural next step, when something gives you energy and opportunities, you want to give some back. And I tend to jump in wholeheartedly when I believe in something.
Why do you think geoscience communities – such as EGU and our Early Career network – are important these days?
We are facing increasingly complex environmental challenges, and no single discipline has all the answers. Communities like EGU create the space where different perspectives can meet, natural sciences, social sciences, policy, communication. That exchange is essential.
The Early Career network, in particular, helps reduce isolation, encourages collaboration, and empowers young scientists to speak up. In a time of global uncertainty, supportive scientific communities are not a luxury, they are a necessity.
How can people engage with EGU’s Early Career Scientist initiatives?
The easiest way is simply to start showing up. Join your division’s early career activities, attend short courses and networking events at the General Assembly, contribute to blogs or outreach, or volunteer in committees, perhaps nominate colleagues for awards and medals, or stand for election to the Union’s governing Council.
You don’t have to do everything at once, although I personally tend to try! Even small steps can lead to meaningful connections. EGU is genuinely welcoming, and there is space for different personalities, interests, and levels of involvement.
