For Dr. Indre Versinskaite, research becomes most exciting when existing solutions no longer offer a way forward. That is when the creative side of chemistry begins: exploring new approaches, learning from setbacks, and developing materials that have never existed before.

Indre joined Lohmann’s Research & Development, Technical Products department in 2022 and leads the Advanced Adhesives team. Together with her team, she develops reactive adhesive tapes for applications including electric mobility. In the interview, she talks about her journey from basic research to industrial development, the people who have shaped her path, and the barriers women in STEM still face.

What are you currently working on—and what makes the topic particularly interesting to you?

I am currently particularly interested in adhesive solutions for electric vehicle batteries. This is a highly relevant topic for the industry and for the continued advancement of electric mobility. I am working on several challenging projects in this area.

Many of the questions are still new and complex—which is precisely what makes the work so appealing to me.

We develop solutions to specific technological challenges and can therefore contribute to the continued advancement of electric mobility.

What fascinates you most about chemistry?

I am fascinated by the ability to use chemical reactions to create new compounds, including ones that have never existed before. This allows us to develop materials with unique properties that provide tangible benefits and can help solve today’s technological challenges.

At the same time, I also see laboratory work as a craft. Precision and practical skills are just as important as theoretical knowledge. What I find particularly exciting is the creative side: exploring new approaches, analyzing setbacks, and continuing the research until a complex question leads to a new insight or the right solution.

How did your early enthusiasm for chemistry ultimately become your career?

Chemistry fascinated me from an early age, and I quickly knew that I wanted to pursue it professionally. After completing my studies and earning my doctorate, I wanted to continue conducting research, work on real-world applications, and perhaps even hold a product I had helped develop in my own hands one day.

That ambition led me into industry and eventually to Lohmann. Here, I can apply my knowledge of chemistry and work with my team to develop innovative adhesive solutions for specific requirements. I am particularly drawn to challenges that require us to develop solutions from the ground up.

Who had the greatest influence on you along the way?

At first, my parents were not quite sure what to make of my desire to become a chemist, but they always supported me. My chemistry teacher also recognized my enthusiasm for the subject early on and encouraged me to continue pursuing this path.

Later, one professor in particular placed a great deal of trust in me. He mentored me from my bachelor’s degree through my doctorate and gave me considerable freedom in my research. That trust had a profound impact on me, both professionally and personally.

What barriers do women in STEM still face today—and what needs to change?

I see barriers particularly when it comes to the recognition and visibility of women’s achievements. Bias may be less overt today, but it still exists. Although the gender balance in my chemistry degree program was equal, I found that, as a woman, I had to assert myself more strongly for my expertise to be recognized.

At the same time, many women doubt themselves more than their abilities warrant. Visible role models can make a real difference here. When I was in school, I wish I had learned more about women in STEM and the different paths they had taken. This can spark interest and strengthen confidence in one’s own potential.

At Lohmann, I already see a positive picture: More women than men work in our Research & Development department overall, while the gender balance among team leads is equal. For me, however, it is not just about the numbers. What matters is a culture in which expertise is recognized regardless of gender. Greater equality of opportunity not only strengthens companies’ capacity for innovation, but also makes STEM careers more attractive overall.

Lohmann
Women in STEM

What inspires women to pursue careers in science and technology? How did they find their path—and what have they experienced along the way? In our interview series, we introduce colleagues who conduct research, develop technologies, and take on responsibility at Lohmann. Their stories show the many different paths a STEM career can take—and where barriers still remain.

STEM stands for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.