On October 3, Līga Ignatāne, a research assistant at the Microscopy Laboratory of ISSP UL, appeared on the Latvian National Television program "Rīta Panorāma" (Morning Panorama). Her feature celebrated her recent accolade as a laureate of the Baltic Fellowship for Women in Science 2024, an honor awarded by the Latvian Academy of Sciences and the Latvian National Commission for UNESCO.
In the segment, Līga shared insights into her academic journey. While studying for her bachelor’s degree in optometry, she began working at the ISSP UL, which inspired her to shift her focus to physics for her master’s degree. Currently, her research involves creating nanostructures using a focused ion beam, an intricate process that blends precision with innovation.
Līga’s work centers on gold nanostructures, which she meticulously creates and positions on surfaces. These specialized surfaces are essential for amplifying signals when detecting various substances and molecules. Her research is crucial for identifying different bacteria and developing sensors that can detect viruses or signal when food has begun to spoil.
Her work requires advanced equipment and a keen eye for detail. She faces the challenge of placing nanoballs in precise locations by carving nanoholes for them to land in. The nanoscale materials she works with are incredibly light, making them difficult to control, as they can remain airborne indefinitely.
Her research operates on a scale that is beyond human perception. For context, she explained the dimensions of her work by comparing them to human hair: "If we divide it into 100 parts, we reach the size of a red blood cell, visible under an optical microscope. Divide it further into 1,000 pieces, and we’re talking nanometers."
Colleagues have spoken highly of Līga’s contributions to the institute. They commend her ambition, intelligence, and dedication, noting that she excels in both independent and collaborative settings. With the right tools and infrastructure, they believe she has the potential to make significant breakthroughs.
Līga finds joy in the creative aspects of science, appreciating the limitless opportunities for exploration and innovation. Her work in nanotechnology not only highlights her exceptional talent but also underscores the exciting advancements occurring in this field. Her journey inspires, reflecting the profound impact that passionate individuals can have on science and society.
Full video in Latvian
