10 Questions with Anna Merz

1) When did you work at CERN (including its Scientific Collaborations) and what did you work on?
"During my technical student period of 6 months at CERN, I have worked on my Diploma thesis, with the title: Study of Non-Evaporable Getter coatings (via sputtering) on small diameter vacuum chambers with application on particle accelerators. Leonel Ferreira and Mauro Taborelli were my great advisors!"

2) What is your best memory of working at CERN?
"It was the most interesting engineering project I have worked on and the accessibility to talk to everyone as an equal."

3) What is your current job and where is it located?
"Business Development Manager at Fraunhofer Foreign Affiliates and Representations - Munich, Germany."

4) What skills did you develop during your CERN work experience which have been particularly useful in your subsequent career trajectory?
"Open-mindedness and engineering skills in diversified fields! From Vacuum Technologies to Chemistry and Material Characterisation Techniques"

5) Which skills (if any) did you need to develop further when you left CERN to face your next professional challenges?
"How to deal with conflict negotiations and also  to work fast and under pressure ."

6) What tips would you give to someone who is considering a career transition from academia to industry?
"Just try different things, go to different companies and work in areas you are attracted to. Do not feel afraid to change until you find the spot you fit in."

7) What advice would you give your younger self?
"Start planning ahead but do not be afraid of changes, since every experience will bring you something positive for your career."

8) Do you still keep a close eye on what’s going on at CERN?
"Yes! I eagerly read the newsletter and I am part of the Alumni community."

9) In your opinion, what is the unique value of the CERN Alumni Network?
"The people you can meet through it, the job offers and also the workshops that are made available in the platform ."

10) Imagine you are stranded on a desert island. You can have one piece of music, one book and one luxury item. Which music, book and luxury item would you choose and why?
- "Classic music."
- "The tao of pooh."
- "Sushi!"