My interest in STEM originated in high school. It was during my undergraduate studies in the Department of Geology that I developed a strong interest in environmental studies, while my interest in atmospheric science took shape during my postgraduate education.
Your organization field and mission:
Ensuring a healthy environment and well-being for current generations, while building a sustainable and resilient future for those to come, through innovative research and collaboration to address multiple forms of environmental degradation and the climate crisis. (Organization is IERSD/NOA, https://www.iersd.noa.gr/).
Please tell us briefly about your role in the company / at your organization:
I am a founding member of the Atmospheric Physics and Chemistry Group (APCG, http://apcg.meteo.noa.gr/) with an expertise in atmospheric numerical modeling. I have a research and co-ordination role in several European (and National) research projects of the National Observatory of Athens (NOA, Greece). I am the communication manager of the APCG research activities. I am a member of the Gender Equality and Anti-Discrimination Committee of NOA.
Your interest in STEM
I never had specific role models I wished to emulate. However, I have come to admire ordinary women who have managed to combine leadership and high-impact roles with a healthy and fulfilling quality of life. More broadly, I admire people who remain ethical and productive without being overwhelmed by work-related stress.
Your studies
My biggest challenge during my studies was the transition from the field of Geology to advanced studies in Atmospheric Physics and Chemistry. I had to remain competitive despite not having a strong background in Physics, while at the same time progressing in both the theoretical and practical aspects of numerical atmospheric modelling. Another major challenge was that I remained on project-based contracts throughout the duration of my postgraduate studies. In parallel, I had to balance my research role in projects not directly related to my PhD with the demands of my doctoral research. At the same time, I worked to build the foundations that would allow me to pursue a postdoctoral position abroad.
My advice to girls and women who wish to pursue studies in atmospheric science is to do so with confidence. In the context of the climate crisis, there is a strong need for fair and inclusive research, and therefore for greater female representation in our field. I would also encourage them to advocate for fair pay from the very beginning, so that they can fully dedicate themselves to their research without being distracted by the need to secure their livelihood.
You at work
In the framework of supporting new mothers, the National Observatory of Athens has established a research reintegration fellowship, as part of a broader institutional initiative. (https://www.astro.noa.gr/news/nea/ypotrofia-epanentaxis-stin-ereyna-gia-gynaikes-ereynitries-poy-echoyn-prosfata-teknopoiisei-i-teknothetisei/)
With regard to the social impact of my presence within my institution, I feel particularly proud of my effort to advocate for the inclusion of adoptive mothers among the eligible beneficiaries of the reintegration fellowship mentioned above. Adoption is an equally valid path to family formation, and this should be consistently reflected in every relevant initiative, provision, and institutional policy.
Your point of view
Technology strengthens women’s collaborative networks and supports the continuity of their professional work, especially as long as they continue to bear a disproportionate share of care responsibilities. At the same time, digital tools provide greater visibility to their work, creating more opportunities for recognition, participation, and leadership.
My advice is much the same as for pursuing studies: go for it, and do not hesitate to move forward in claiming positions of responsibility, coordination, and leadership. Break the glass ceiling.
Wishful thinking: a world where DEIS is so deeply embedded that it no longer needs defending, explaining, or discussing.
To finish with
The values that guide me are integrity over self-interest, support for what is fair and just — even when this may be uncomfortable, disadvantageous, or personally risky — authenticity and openness, a commitment to quality of life, and kindness.
The challenges I see ahead for myself include securing the professional stability that will allow me to focus on work with the highest possible impact for people and the planet. I also aspire to contribute to the wider dissemination of scientific knowledge in society, and to encourage girls and young women to engage with science through education.
By 2030, I hope to have meaningfully and impactfully brought together my two current professional commitments: environmental research and children’s literature.
The current activity has been implemented in the framework of the Project: Code4Europe,
GA Number: 101158834. Official project website : https://codeweek.eu/