The quest to understand matter at high densities opens new horizons for our understanding of the universe. In line with this trend, Dyana Duarte’s project aims to investigate exotic phases in the data generated from the merger of two neutron stars. Physics from the Federal University of São João, Duarte also has a master’s degree in physics from the same institution. She continued her doctorate at the Federal University of Santa Maria, where she now works as an adjunct professor. She had two postdoctoral periods, first at the University of Washington, United States, and then at the Aeronautical Technological Institute.

Very connected to nature, she uses her free time to go trekking, walks to the beach and waterfalls and long walks outdoors. Married and without children, the scientist has two other passions: dogs and Japanese manga. Little Nika is the couple’s faithful canine companion. She earned her name in a double tribute: a character from the manga One Piece and a particle accelerator under construction, both her namesakes.