[ November 29, 2024 by ECWT - SATAweb 0 Comments ]

Antonella Samueli

Your organization field and mission

IAL FVG

Please tell us briefly about your role at your organization:

STEM teacher and coordinator of IVET courses.

Your interest in STEM

I have always been curious about how things worked or how things happened.

My middle school and three-year high school science teachers.

Your studies

The biggest challenge: the many chemistry exams with general chemistry as a propaedeutic for most exams.

When a subject is chosen that one likes (not because it has a secure career outlet) it is easier to overcome a more difficult subject.

You at work

Transmitting content in various ways: lessons with the use of videos in Italian and English to make certain topics understood.

Use of wordsearch grids to become familiar with the words of the subject I teach with varying degrees of difficulty.

Use of kahoot and wordwall activities for sharing content.

Getting a few students interested in the subject I teach.

Believe in what they have chosen and do not give up at the first hurdle.

Your point of view

Knowledge always enriches everyone and, in many areas, due to the lack of recognition of gender equality, women are not recognized for the value of their scientific knowledge.

If that is what they want to do and like, they must believe and persevere.

I hope that every future worker regardless of gender, nationality can choose the job they prefer.

To finish with

Work while maintaining a firm focus without losing patience.

[ October 17, 2024 by ECWT - SATAweb 0 Comments ]

Christina Schindler

Your organization field and mission

Education – HM Hochschule München University of Applied Sciences is the second largest university of applied sciences in Germany. Our 18,000 students and our location in a leading European business centre afford fantastic opportunities, but also mean we have a responsibility in industrial, economic and social contexts. It is especially important for us to nurture our graduates’ characters: besides their well-founded professional skills, our students should stand out by thinking and acting in a sustainable, entrepreneurial and intercultural way. With these additional qualifications which reach beyond the students’ specialist fields, we prepare them to contribute to society and to approach their careers with foresight, creativity and a sense of responsibility.

Please tell us briefly about your role at your organization:

I am responsible for the Master program “Micro- and Nanotechnology” and for the international relations of the Department of Applied Sciences and Mechatronics. Next to teaching in the field of micro- and nanostructures and -analytics I am setting up a virtual lab to enrich the practical experience in the lab classes and lectures.

Between June 2024 – May 2028 I lead the Chips of Europe Project with 22 partners and a budget of € 9.53 M. www.chipsofeurope.eu addressing the shortage of workforce in the EU semiconductor industry and with the goal In the next 4 years industry and academia to increase the attractiveness of semiconductor-related study programs and careers.

Your interest in STEM

Thanks to my mother, a civil engineer, I always loved to solve riddles and was encouraged to play with numbers. So already as a little girl my interest in STEM was born.

My first role model was my mother, her interest in engineering was very inspiring. Further, for me Michelle Obama is a role model I look up to.

Your studies

My biggest challenge was everything related to programming as I had nearly no experience with this before picking up my studies.

Engineering is a super creative field in which you work in teams and can create new fantastic devices – Dare to pick up studies even if they are challenging, the reward is worth it!

You at work

We offer degree courses and active academic collaboration in the MINT subjects (mathematics, computer science, natural sciences and engineering), business, the social sciences and public health as well as in architecture and design. Our Department of General and Interdisciplinary Studies is unique in providing every student with a cross-disciplinary education and in developing their personal skills.

I am working full time in the job I love most and have two wonderful children and a great husband. Sometimes we live in an unstable balance, and it is hard to combine all parts of life, but we always make it work. At work, already 12 years ago, I started video lecturing and now I have started a first project on virtual labs in my university. In the beginning I wasn´t exactly sure how to achieve what I planned for, but in a team, we could sort it out and now the lab is going to be online soon – this is what I am proud of.

If you enjoy explaining and exploring being a professor is a wonderful job to strive for.

Your point of view

Use technology to make your daily life great, to network, to organize, and to have fun!

Why shouldn´t you? Our daily life is full of devices that depend on microelectronics, which still could become even better, and in working in microelectronics you can be part of the team improving them!

To finish with

Do what´s right and fear no one.

I want to motivate students, especially female students, for micro- and nanotechnology and encourage for more international exchange within the Master´s program.

Still at the university, hopefully with an extended virtual lab and real lab, working with students from all over the world on challenges in micro- and nanotechnology.

[ September 17, 2024 by ECWT - SATAweb 0 Comments ]

Anne Kaminski Cachopo

Your organization field and mission

At Grenoble INP, PHELMA, our mission is to train future engineers in physics, microelectronics, and related fields, contributing to the development of cutting-edge technologies, particularly in photovoltaics. Our focus is to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to address technological, societal, and environmental challenges.

Please tell us briefly about your role in the company / at your organization:

I am a professor at Grenoble INP, teaching physics and microelectronics at PHELMA. The school trains between 300 and 350 students per year over a three-year period. In parallel, I conduct research at the CROMA center, focusing on photovoltaics. As the head of the laboratory, I manage scientific oversight, budget, personnel safety, and human resources.

Your interest in STEM

My passion for science started very early. I was particularly fascinated by mathematics as a child, and in middle school, discovering physics, especially the study of atoms and electrons, was a turning point for me. It sparked my imagination and fueled my desire to delve deeper into the fascinating world of science.

Marie Curie has always been a key inspiration for me, not only because of her remarkable contributions to science but also because we share Polish roots. My mother, who admired Marie Curie’s accomplishments, also inspired me by instilling in me the belief that anything is possible for women. In addition, Simone Veil and several female colleagues in leadership positions have served as role models through their determination and success.

Your studies

My educational path was straightforward until I faced a major challenge during my final year of high school when I was diagnosed with cancer. This was a difficult period that affected my self-confidence, but my studies became a source of strength and helped me overcome the ordeal. Completing my PhD marked a significant turning point in my life, where I truly found my place and thrived academically and professionally.

My advice to young girls and boys is to have confidence in themselves and their abilities. Listen to your motivation, dream big, and be ambitious. There are many pathways in science, and it’s important to explore different fields and find your passion. Most of all, believe in yourself and your potential.

You at work

We have implemented several initiatives to promote inclusion and gender equality, addressing issues like the “glass ceiling.” These initiatives include raising awareness about cultural and gender biases, offering internships specifically for women, launching mentorship programs, and ensuring gender parity during recruitment processes. All of these efforts aim to make our fields more attractive and accessible to a diverse group of individuals.

I am particularly proud of the dynamic environment we have created in the laboratory I have been leading for the past three years. In the field of photovoltaics, I’m honored that our expertise is sought after for various projects, consulting, and partnerships, which reflects the recognition of the quality of our work and my skills as a leader.

Confidence is key. Pursue your ambitions with determination and don’t be afraid to take up space in a traditionally male-dominated field. There are numerous pathways to success, and it’s important to remain adaptable and open to new opportunities. Believe in your potential and be ambitious.

Your point of view

Fields like photovoltaics and microelectronics offer a diverse range of materials, techniques, and challenges. These sectors provide the opportunity for continuous evolution throughout one’s career. They are also directly linked to addressing scientific and societal challenges, particularly climate change. For young people, these are exciting fields where they can make a meaningful impact on society while building rewarding careers.

I highly recommend the field of photovoltaics and microelectronics to young people. These are dynamic and evolving sectors, offering countless challenges and opportunities. Microelectronics, in particular, is vast and varied, with activities ranging from research and development to practical applications. The connection with climate issues makes these fields even more relevant and motivating.

By 2030, I would like to see equal representation of women and men in the field of microelectronics, with all individuals being acutely aware of the climate challenges we face. I envision a society where sustainability and environmental concerns are seamlessly integrated into both education and the workplace, driving innovation and responsibility in the sector.

To finish with

I firmly believe in the importance of resilience, confidence, and ambition. Throughout my career, these values have helped me overcome challenges and make meaningful contributions to my field. It is also essential to foster an inclusive and supportive environment for all colleagues, where everyone can excel in their roles.

In the future, one of my key challenges will be continuing to develop innovative solutions in photovoltaics and microelectronics while ensuring that our work addresses urgent societal and environmental issues. I hope to continue leading dynamic research teams and contributing to projects that push the boundaries of what’s possible.

By 2030, I see myself still at the forefront of research in microelectronics and photovoltaics, working to address the pressing challenges of climate change and sustainability. I also hope to continue mentoring young scientists, particularly women, and fostering an inclusive environment where future generations can thrive.

[ July 19, 2024 by ECWT - SATAweb 0 Comments ]

Yianna Danidou

Your organization field and mission

NA

Please tell us briefly about your role in the company / at your organization:

I am an Assistant Professor in Cybersecurity at European University Cyprus, where our focus spans various academic disciplines with a strong emphasis on cybersecurity education, gender equality on cybersecurity and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) and data science education.

Your interest in STEM

My interest in STEM, especially cybersecurity, was sparked during my undergraduate studies in computer science. The evolving nature of cybersecurity challenges and its critical role in protecting digital assets captivated my interest early on.

Initially, my professors and mentors in university served as role models, demonstrating exceptional knowledge and dedication in their fields. Currently, I find inspiration in contemporary leaders and researchers who are advancing cybersecurity through innovative research and solutions.

Your studies

Throughout my academic journey, I focused on developing expertise in cybersecurity, supported by a solid foundation in computer science and mathematics. My studies prepared me to tackle complex challenges and contribute meaningfully to the field through research and education.

During my studies, I encountered various challenges such as navigating complex technical concepts, managing rigorous academic demands, and balancing research commitments with personal responsibilities. These challenges strengthened my resilience and shaped my academic and professional growth.

  1. Build a Strong Foundation: Master foundational concepts in mathematics, computer science, and technology.
  2. Seek Mentorship: Connect with mentors and professionals for guidance and support.
  3. Embrace Challenges: Approach challenges with a growth mindset and learn from them.
  4. Promote Diversity: Advocate for diversity and inclusion within STEM fields.

Stay Current: Stay updated with emerging trends and technologies in cybersecurity.

You at work

I am very proud for my research and all the CYBER.EUC research center that I am directing. Moreover, I have recently been awarded the Best Teaching award for 2024 within EUC.

To young women embarking on their journey in cybersecurity, I offer these words of advice: cultivate a thirst for knowledge, build a solid foundation in technical skills, seek mentors who can guide and inspire you, and embrace challenges as opportunities for growth. Remember, your unique perspective and contributions are invaluable in shaping the future of cybersecurity. Together, we can forge a more diverse, innovative, and secure digital landscape for generations to come.

Your point of view

Technology serves as a transformative force in empowering women across various fronts. While providing access to digital education platforms, it equips women with skills and knowledge to pursue careers in traditionally male-dominated fields like STEM. Moreover, technological innovations enable flexible work arrangements, allowing women to balance professional aspirations with personal responsibilities.

To girls and women aspiring to excel in microelectronics, I urge a commitment to learning and innovation. Begin by mastering foundational concepts in electrical engineering and computer science, ensuring a solid understanding of circuit design, semiconductor physics, and digital systems. Seek out opportunities for practical experience through internships, research projects, or industry collaborations to hone technical skills and gain insights into real-world applications.

Looking forward to 2030, my vision for the microelectronics sector revolves around integrating Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Sustainability (DEIS) principles at its core. I envision diverse and inclusive workplaces where women and underrepresented groups thrive in leadership roles, contributing innovative perspectives to technological advancements. Implementing equitable hiring practices and fostering supportive environments will ensure opportunities are accessible to all. Moreover, sustainable manufacturing practices and ethical considerations in technology development will prioritize environmental responsibility and social impact. By 2030, I hope to see the microelectronics industry leading by example, driving positive societal change and advancing global progress towards a more equitable and sustainable future.

To finish with

My core values center around academic excellence, innovation, inclusivity, and ethical responsibility. I am deeply committed to advancing knowledge in cybersecurity through rigorous research and education, while also fostering an environment that promotes diversity and supports the professional growth of students and colleagues alike. Integrity, collaboration, and a passion for making a meaningful impact in the field of cybersecurity drive my work and interactions within the academic community.

Looking ahead, I anticipate several challenges within my professional journey. One significant challenge will be staying abreast of rapid technological advancements and evolving cybersecurity threats. Maintaining relevance and expertise in a constantly changing field will require continuous learning, adaptation, and innovative thinking. Additionally, balancing the demands of teaching, research, and administrative responsibilities while maintaining a healthy work-life balance will be crucial.

In 2030, I envision myself as a seasoned academic leader and influencer in cybersecurity, having significantly contributed to both research advancements and educational excellence. I aspire to have established myself as a respected authority in cybersecurity, recognized for pioneering research that addresses emerging threats and advances the field’s theoretical foundations. Beyond academia, I hope to have expanded my impact through collaborations with industry and government sectors, influencing policy development and promoting best practices in cybersecurity globally. Personally, I aim to continue mentoring and inspiring the next generation of cybersecurity professionals, advocating for diversity and inclusion in STEM fields, and contributing to a safer digital landscape for all.

[ July 6, 2024 by ECWT - SATAweb 0 Comments ]

Christiana Michael Neophytou

Your organization field and mission

European University Cyprus (EUC) was founded in 2007 and developed out of Cyprus College, which was established in 1961. EUC places strong emphasis on linking teaching with research and carrying out public outreach activities, aiming at increasing the interest of young people and the wider public in scientific endeavors. The research activity of the university, as measured by its success in securing external research funding and authoring quality journal publications, has increased significantly in the last decade. EUC has an extensive portfolio of research and innovation projects, funded by the European Commission (e.g., Horizon Europe, Horizon2020, Erasmus+, Directorates-General), the Cyprus Research and Innovation Foundation, the Max Planck Institute, the European Space Agency, and other governmental bodies and private organizations. In 2017, the EUC was awarded the “HR Excellence in Research” logo by the European Commission, which identifies institutions and organizations that provide a favourable working environment for researchers.

Please tell us briefly about your role in the company / at your organization:

In my role as Assistant professor in Cancer Biology, I teach undergraduate and graduate Courses relevant to Molecular and Cellular Biology. I am also head of the Apoptosis and Cancer Chemoresistance Group, which aims to investigate through basic research underlying mechanisms of carcinogenesis and new approaches in cancer therapy.

Your interest in STEM

My interest in STEM begun in my school years; I found Biology, Chemistry, Physics and Maths more interesting, useful and easier to understand that other courses. I always felt that I could be part in a greater mix of scientists that could solve the cancer therapy puzzle and contribute to helping people with this disease.

My first role model was Dr Andreas Constantinou who was my mentor and supervisor during my PhD years. Right now, I am inspired by scientists in my organization and internationally that passionately pursue research.

Your studies

During my studies in Cancer Biology at the University in Athens and Cyprus, my SWOT analysis revealed:

Strengths: Ability to adapt to new situations, problem solving, and a keen interest in cancer biology and science in general. Weaknesses: Procrastinating, impostor syndrome. Opportunities: Mentorship, access to dissemination programs such as COST, access to funding local and international. Threats: Keeping pace with rapid technological advancements, working under a limited budget, multi-tasking

Perseverance and Adaptability! Never be discouraged if a project does not go the way it was originally planned and learn to adapt to new situations. Interact with other scientists and be open to learning from them.

You at work

Yes the European University is applying good practices in DEIS. I was the recipient of the Early Career Woman Researcher award, that aims to promote and support specifically women in our organization.

Balance between my working and family roles. Also being able to inspire students to pursue their own dreams after they graduate from our University.

You can manage both a Career and a family life if that is what you want and you have support from relatives and friends. However, you can find fulfilment in one or the other and you should not feel pressured to complete a “checklist” of other people’s expectations.

Your point of view

Technology can empower women by enabling them to use the latest advancements in their field of interest; to contribute in a meaningful way to the field that has sparked their interest; to help them generate and share findings that help humanity and give them a sense of purpose in life.

This is not my field, but I believe any science field requires constant education on the cutting-edge technologies, effort in becoming skilled to the science you choose to pursue, interaction with other scientists and taking pride in what you discover.

To be fully practiced and applied. In Science, the criteria for advancement should be only Excellence, Skill and Innovation.

To finish with

Equality in science, hard work, honesty, integrity and fairness.

To delegate more, to keep training in technological advancements, to inspire and mentor my students, to provide opportunities for others to achieve excellence.

Hopefully teaching and leading important research projects, guiding a large team of young scientists.

[ July 2, 2024 by ECWT - SATAweb 0 Comments ]

Silvia Bodoardo

Your organization field and mission

Politecnico di Torino. Prepares architects and engineers. In the field of engineering, covers all sectors, except naval engineering. I’m in the Applied Science and Technology department that deals with chemistry, physics and materials.

Please tell us briefly about your role in the company / at your organization:

Professor and researcher in the field of batteries, mainly at EU level.

Your interest in STEM

I have always been interested in the technical scientific field. I did a scientific high school because I was very interested in science. After high school, I graduated in chemistry. During my thesis dissertation I became interested in research, and I started my PhD at the Politecnico di Torino, doing a joint doctorate between the Politecnico di Milano, Politecnico di Torino and the University of Genova.

Starting from the idea that there are no differences between men and women, the highest is the visibility that women have, the highest will be the possibility for women to recognize themselves in some role models.

Your studies

I didn’t have specific difficulties, perhaps the need to become independent from my family and be able to support myself. The hardest part came later, as there were few doctoral positions and it was difficult to be selected. In the end, I could make it even though the areas were completely different from those in which I specialized.

When I was young, while I was waiting to enter to the Politecnico di Torino, I was teaching at school. When I won the competition at the Politecnico di Torino, I left the job and my dad asked me why I was leaving a path so suitable for a woman. I made this decision because it was what I aspired to and to this day I am proud of my decision and of the goals achieved. So, it is important to carry on the things you’re passionate about, by not being afraid that it’s harder in the science field. Generally, women face more difficulties than men, as they always have to prove that they are up to the task.

You at work

Something is being done. For example, initiative to promote the possibility for woman to advance in their careers, as well as discussions on how to deal with the maternity leave, which should be equal for men. I, as representative of Piemonte region universities in the Board of Directors of the networks on the right to study, I had all the documentation modified to include the female gender.

In general, there is still no equality, even if something is changing, considering that in the past there were fewer women who did this job.

To have brought at EU level the topic of the batteries as central theme in the research field. I am one of the founders of the Battery 2030 initiative, which is leading to the formulation of many jobs at EU level. In addition, within these projects, I also deal a lot with the engagement of young people. For example, we have just created a youth community in Europe in the battery field, since it is important to have a youth community that can take forward these initiatives.

In this area it is very easy to find a job. As researchers or professors, it is more complicated because unfortunately there are not many places available. Within the battery industry there will be more jobs in the future (about one and a half million are foreseen by 2030), as it is also a multidisciplinary sector in which different skills are required, including chemistry, economy, electronic and mechanical engineer, etc. The field is in a very strong evolution.

Your point of view

All technical areas are those where you can earn higher salaries, so having the opportunity to enter on those areas give you more chances, even counting that it is much easier to find work. Also, from the point of view of social acceptance, a female engineer will enjoy higher importance, since the there are few female engineers in the field. The field of digitalization is transversal and important in all sectors. This must follow a conscious path. Digitization in general is extremely important because it is transversal to all sectors.

To finish with

Solidarity, peace, equity, fairness, environmental sustainability.

Support the creation of a group of proactive young people that can be attractive at European level, and create an impact with their ideas, especially in the field of sustainability.

To see people of the electrochemistry group have a good career and recognition at international and European level.

[ June 19, 2024 by ECWT - SATAweb 0 Comments ]

Helena Castan

Your organization´s key sector and mission:
Education and research.

Please tell us briefly about your role in the company/organization:

Research and teaching on electronic materials and devices.

Your interest in STEM

Since I was a child. I always wondered why things happen, and I was fascinated by the origin of matter.

My first role models were George Gamow, Marie Curie, and Alexander Mendeleiev. At present Carl Sagan and Rita Levi Montalcini.

Your studies

Developing intuition, as I soon realized that it is a key element in scientific research, along with perseverance and open-mindedness.

That they enjoy the opportunity to learn and believe in themselves to achieve it.

You at work

Working in an experimental laboratory, in spite of all the difficulties.

That they get used to go deep and pay attention to all the details. That they always look for solid arguments and move forward with firm and sure steps.

Your point of view

Technology allows us to achieve any place, any activity and, above all, knowledge. Knowledge is power.

Since it is a field that is at the forefront and has an impact on people’s lives, they should always think about the ethical dimension of their work.

I would like there to be effective equality of opportunities and respect for all people.

To finish with

Professional honesty, perseverance and enthusiasm.

Train young people to do authentic science with human values.

In 2030 I will turn 66! I hope to reach that age healthy and be able to continue working.

[ June 18, 2024 by ECWT - SATAweb 0 Comments ]

Paola Bonfante

Your organization´s key sector and mission:
Plant Microbe Interactions laboratory, which mainly works on research on plant-microbe interaction studies. Using cellular, molecular biology and NGS techniques, I investigated mycorrhizal fungi focusing on their interactions with host plants, from the colonization process with the description of the so-called pre-penetration apparatus, to the identification of signaling molecules, as the chito-oligosaccharides. Together with my team, we have demonstrated how arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi act as bio-fertilizers and bio protectors against plant pathogens. 

Please tell us briefly about your role in the company/organization:

At the moment I am retired, but I’ve held several positions, as full professor, Head of Department, Responsible of the Centro di Studio sulla Micologia del Terreno del CNR-Torino, and PhDs Coordinator. I am also a Professor Emerita at the University of Turin, and this means having more than 20 years of experience as an ordinary professor. I started working as a professor in a very young age and this is not something obvious given that, generally, women career normally goes slower.

I studied in Turin, then I went to live in France and then returned to Italy as a CNR researcher and became a professor at the University. At that time, even in a sector like mine, there were very wise women colleagues, but the professors were mainly men, marking a clear division not only in my sector, but also in other sectors. To date, the situation has certainly improved.

Your interest in STEM

I had not an innate vocation for this area. I come from a family without specific scientific interests. Thinking about the moment when my interest started, I think of the first editions of the Italian journal “L’Espresso”, in the mid-60s, with articles on the wonders of DNA.

If I have to think about a role model in the science sector, I think about Rita Levi Montalcini, who always took into consideration the issues surrounding women in the science sector.

Your studies

The difficulties came in the research field, when we understood that biology was running fast and efforts were needed not only based on specific topic but also on the ability to move to a more experimental approach, applying new technologies. On a personal level, the greatest difficulty was to make the laboratory a real physical structure, with the necessary instrumentation.

At gender level, the situation has now changed a lot compared to the past. Biology has a lower gender disparity than other STEM sectors. It is always important to really understand what you want to do in life and to cultivate an interest, also considering that, nowadays, disciplines can be easily combined.

You at work

At the time I was working, these issues were not present as they are now. Anyway, I want to stress the group of research with whom I was working were all women.

Together with other colleagues, we founded the first group of Woman and Science, that currently exists, which then became very important at national level. The focus of the group was mainly on solving the disparities between women and men by also promoting the discussion on how to survive in a sector dominated by men. Another thing I am proud of is that, starting from the already existing knowledge in the research we carried out within the Laboratory, we have managed to bring the studies to a more contemporary level, opening the doors to a very important discourse for science. Many of my young students are currently professors in London, France, Germany and Italy.

As I said, understanding that every discipline is interconnected, so it’s easy to move from one sector to another and discover new paths.

Your point of view

Technology helps to partially solve some of the gender inequality issues. Thanks to changes due to technology, also young colleagues are supported in the research management.

To finish with

Research must go hand in hand with the needs of society, giving an ethical value to what a person does. Research helps a lot to work together, and to create a concept of community and sharing.

I wish I could find out new things on my research that I haven’t been able to identify yet.

Continuing with projects based on what have been some of my discoveries and observations on fungi and bacteria and continue with the scientific dissemination.

[ June 18, 2024 by ECWT - SATAweb 0 Comments ]

Patrizia Caraveo

Your organization´s key sector and mission:
Research in astrophysics

Please tell us briefly about your role in the company/organization:

I’ve always worked with high-energy astrophysics and managed gamma-ray astronomy missions. Lately I’ve been working on a ground-based gamma-ray astronomy project with INAF’s participation in a large observatory called the Cherenkov Telescope Array, CTA.

Your interest in STEM

During my high school years, I cultivated a passion for physics. The interest in astrophysics was born during the university years, thanks to the optional courses I took on astrophysics and cosmic physics. I decided to write my thesis on a newly launched European gamma astronomy satellite. From this, I then moved abroad and once back in Italy, I was selected to start working at the CNR (the Italian National Research Council).

I don’t have a clear “role model”. The only thing I can share is that the biography of Marie Curie, written by her daughter, captured my attention when I was a little girl, and her personality impressed me.

Your studies

No one in particular. I was very determined in doing what I wanted to, without thinking too much about the future.

Never accept when people say that this job is not for women, which often happens.

You at work

There are no dedicated initiatives, but there is a lot of attention to the subject. When organizing events, meetings, conferences, we always pay attention to topics such as inclusion and sustainability.

I’ve had some important, recognized achievements. The one I am most proud of is having received the Enrico Fermi Award in 2021 for understanding the nature of a particular star, the star Geminga, to which my husband and I have given the name and on which we have focused our studies for several years.

Don’t be discouraged by prejudice, women are absolutely capable of doing everything. I am among these women who managed to realize their dreams. So, what I always say to my students is that the most important quality, besides the desire to study, is to never get discouraged, to be determined and pursue what you want to achieve. Remember that luck only helps people who are ready to welcome opportunities.

Your point of view

Technology is important, learning how to use it is important. It should not be seen as an obstacle, and therefore it is necessary for women to learn how to use it.

To finish with

The importance of research to improve the quality of life (for example, WiFi was invented by radio astronomers). The development of culture as part of life. People should commit to improve their culture and cultivate knowledge.

Being able to carry out the projects in which I am involved, as well as continuing with the activity of scientific dissemination to the public.

[ June 18, 2024 by ECWT - SATAweb 0 Comments ]

Maria Grazia Speranza

Your organization´s key sector and mission:
Education and research

Please tell us briefly about your role in the company/organization:

I am a full professor of Operations Research. I have been Dean of the Faculty of Economics and Management and Deputy Rector.

Your interest in STEM

I did not have women role models because there were none in my field. I tried to do what I loved and to excel in what I loved.

Your studies

My biggest challenge has been to believe I could be really good in what I would do.

You at work

I wrote a book “Il cognomen delle donne” in which I talk about the difficulties that STEM women encounter in life.

I am an accomplished researcher, known around the world for my papers. I also have a family, a husband and two wonderful daughters.

To finish with

To be a role model for young women, to write a book about STEM for women.