Hi there! I’m a research project manager with a passion for green technology, holding an MSc in Physics from the University of Pavia and a PhD from Utrecht University. I love working on projects that bring innovative solutions to life, especially in the fields of energy and sustainability. Since joining Uniresearch in 2021, I have led proposal development and managed European research projects, particularly in sustainability and innovation. In the E-TANDEM project, I support the coordination of day-to-day operations, ensuring smooth collaboration among partners, together with the dissemination, communication, and exploitation efforts to maximize the impact of E-TANDEM’s renewable fuel technology.
What was your original motivation to become a research project manager?
My original motivation to become a research project manager stemmed from my passion for bridging scientific research and practical implementation. During my academic journey, I enjoyed not only conducting experiments and theoretical research focused on NMR method development but also collaborating with multidisciplinary teams across borders. I realized that one of my strengths lies in organizing, coordinating, and facilitating the seamless execution of complex projects. The opportunity to contribute to impactful innovations, such as next-generation solar cell technologies and clean energy solutions, while leveraging my skills in proposal development, international collaboration, and Open Science practices, inspired me to transition into this dynamic role. It’s incredibly fulfilling to support researchers in turning their ideas into reality and ensuring the projects succeed on a European and global scale.
What is your (main) research area today?
My work is deeply rooted in advancing innovation within the fields of clean fuels development, PV, next-generation batteries, and 2D materials. I oversee R&D proposal design, project management, and the implementation of Open Science practices to ensure impactful and sustainable outcomes. Additionally, I actively contribute to the exploitation and dissemination of research results, helping to bridge the gap between scientific advancements and their practical applications in energy and sustainability.
What is the main objective of your team in E-TANDEM?
With over 30 years of experience, the main objective of our team in the E-TANDEM project is to ensure the smooth management, coordination, and administration of the project while maximizing its overall impact. We focus on facilitating seamless communication among all partners, ensuring timely dissemination of project results, and leading exploitation activities to promote the implementation of project advancements. By efficiently managing dissemination, communication, and exploitation tasks, we aim to ensure that E-TANDEM’s innovative, low-cost, and eco-friendly solar cell technologies reach their full potential in addressing global energy challenges.
Which aspects of your research at E-TANDEM do you believe are the most innovative and what unique opportunities E-TANDEM offer to yourself and/or your organisation?
The most innovative aspect of E-TANDEM is the focus on developing the first direct process for the selective production of carbon-neutral higher oxygenate e-fuels from CO2, water, and renewable sources. The project’s integration of cutting-edge techniques sets it apart as a new solution to energy challenges. For Uniresearch, E-TANDEM offers a unique opportunity to deepen our expertise in the renewable energy sector, especially in the areas of energy-efficient technologies and sustainable innovation. It allows us to expand our knowledge, strengthen our position in managing and coordinating large-scale European projects, and broaden our network by connecting with leading experts and organizations in the field. Additionally, we can advance our skills in the dissemination and exploitation of research outcomes to maximize their real-world impact.
How do you see the future use of the E-TANDEM results and the impact of E-TANDEM project in our daily lives?
I strongly believe the E-TANDEM project has the potential to advance transportation and energy production by enabling the creation of carbon-neutral, higher oxygenated e-fuels (HOEF) that are compatible with existing internal combustion engines and fuel infrastructure. By utilizing CO2, water, and renewable energy, this technology could significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve air quality, and address the challenges of renewable energy intermittency by converting surplus power into sustainable fuels. Its broad applicability across heavy-duty road, marine, and aviation sectors, along with the promise of scalable and cost-effective production, can drive the transition to cleaner energy, support economic growth, and ensure energy security, contributing to a more sustainable and resilient future.