Research creates perspectives: Stella Vješnica (DZA)
June 2026
Stella Vješnica is an astrophysicist at the German Centre for Astrophysics (DZA) in Görlitz, specializing in imaging sensors. Her work focuses on the characterization of detector systems in the optical and near-infrared ranges for astronomy. She also contributes to the development of the laboratory infrastructure and research activities required for future astronomical instruments.
Who are you and what are you working or researching?
I come from Croatia and moved to Germany to study astrophysics at the University of Bonn, where I earned my Master of Science degree. I have been working in astronomical instrumentation and detector technology for several years. From 2021 to 2024, I worked at the Leibniz Institute for Astrophysics Potsdam (AIP) in the detector systems and astrophotonics research groups. There, I contributed to the development of integrated photonic spectrographs and characterized photonic mode converter technologies and advanced infrared detector systems. I also supported the testing and commissioning of cameras for the 4MOST instrument of the VISTA telescope in Chile.
Since 2024, I have been part of the newly founded German Center for Astrophysics (DZA) in Görlitz. I was the first international woman to join the center. One of the most rewarding aspects of my work has been building new optics and detector laboratories from the ground up. Today, these laboratories support several exciting research projects focused on characterizing visible and near-infrared detector systems for astronomical applications.
Why did you come to the region and what convinced you to work here?
My move to Görlitz was closely linked to the opportunity to work for the newly founded DZA and to remain connected with colleagues whose scientific approach I admire. During my previous stays in Görlitz, I appreciated how many aspects of daily life are easily accessible, while the city also offers a rich cultural and historical atmosphere. The chance to contribute to the development of a new scientific institution from the very beginning was particularly motivating.
How did you experience your arrival in Lusatia and what do you like about living in cities like Görlitz?
Settling into life in Lusatia was straightforward and welcoming. One aspect that particularly struck me was how easy it was to establish a comfortable daily routine here. I appreciate the compact layout of Görlitz, where work, shopping, leisure activities, and cultural facilities are all within easy reach. The region also boasts attractive natural landscapes, including lakes and green spaces. Furthermore, Görlitz and Zgorzelec together offer a surprisingly diverse international culinary scene.
What makes the Lausitz science region special from your point of view?
Lusatia has great potential to connect influential scientific and technological regions in Central Europe. Located between major research centers such as Berlin, Dresden, Prague, and Wrocław, Lusatia can become a hub where expertise from various disciplines and institutions converges, fostering interdisciplinary research, innovative ideas, and new scientific partnerships.
What would you say to other international scientists who are considering coming here?
I would encourage researchers coming here to approach the region with openness and curiosity. In my experience, colleagues here are open-minded, supportive, and interested in forging new connections. For researchers who enjoy helping to shape new structures and initiatives, Lusatia offers a unique opportunity to develop and nurture new projects.
Text: German Center for Astrophysics
This portrait was created in cooperation with Hi!Lusatia eV as part of the exhibition “Hi!Lusatia – Research creates perspectives” in the Brüderstraße Gallery in Görlitz.
