Ankita Gangotra works to decarbonize cement, steel, and concrete

“What can physicists do? ” is an interview series that profiles physicists who opted for careers outside of academia.

What was your research focus?

For my PhD, I created a tool using nanopipettes to study the mechanical properties of micro- and nanoparticles with electrical signals. I looked at bioparticles and synthetic particles.

What were you looking for in a job?

I didn’t want to follow a career in academia or industry. Looking at the geopolitics of the world, I realized I could use my technical skills to inform policy. After my PhD, I did an internship with New Zealand’s chief science adviser and then worked for an environmental startup focused on sustainable agriculture and citizen science.

How did you get to UNIDO?

My next step was a postdoc at Georgetown University that combined policy and my background in materials science. I did research and looked at cement-decarbonization policies. I then worked at the World Resources Institute, a nonprofit think tank. When my current job came up, a few people told me to apply. I came to UNIDO, in Vienna, last July.

What are your responsibilities?

I lead global coordination of 14 countries across all six inhabited continents and more than 70 stakeholders looking at decarbonizing cement, steel, and concrete through climate-friendly purchasing practices. We also are working to harmonize greenhouse gas standards for decarbonization.

I liaise with governments around the world to try to understand their needs as they decarbonize and rush to reach development goals. I coordinate with industry associations and technical and government experts. I provide technical guidance on best practices and make sure that our activities are visible at global and regional forums around the world. We want to make sure there is momentum so that governments act.

How do you use your physics?

My background gave me the tools I need to make sure what I do is grounded in sound, evidence-based information.

What new skills did you need?

Mostly soft people skills and the ability to communicate complex ideas in simple terms.

What do you like most about your job?

Working with governments to create impact. I like seeing the ambitions of countries from all parts of the world. There is a lot of pressure, but the work is varied and it’s exactly what I wanted to do. I love it.