Women @ Energy: Robyn Madrak Plant

Dr. Robyn Madrak Plant is a Scientist at Fermilab, working in Accelerator Division on RF cavities and power for Booster and PIP-II, and also on the g-2 experiment. She previously worked in Fermilab’s Technical Division, beginning in 2004. She received her undergraduate degree from Cornell in Physics and her Ph.D. in Experimental High Energy Particle Physics from Harvard University. Her post-doctoral research was on accelerator technology R&D.

I wouldn't say there was one source of inspiration in particular. I was always interested in science, ever since I can remember. In general I would say my parents and science teachers were both sources of inspiration.

It's exciting that we can do such challenging and large scale experiments which could not be
accomplished at most other places. 

I think the main source of encouragement would be in seeing both role models and more peers: more women in STEM at all stages and branches - in positions from high to low level, from the teaching oriented to management oriented to technically oriented. This is difficult because it is essentially saying to get more women, we already need to have more women. Also, I think the opportunity to do research as an undergraduate is key. Finally, more funding for STEM in general and thus a larger total number of positions working in those fields would be hugely beneficial.

I would recommend that people pursue what interests them, but also keep in mind that the day-to-day work must be fun. Often the end goal is interesting, but you may find that you prefer some other type of work on a daily basis. And most important is finding a group of people that you like to work with.

I enjoy keeping a saltwater reef aquarium (with coral, fish, crabs, etc.), scuba diving, and spending time with my husband and cat.