During my studiesMy interest in STEM was born during my studies as an ichthyologist. Through studying fish biology and aquatic ecosystems, I developed a deep appreciation for environmental science and the complexity of natural systems. Working closely with ecological research helped me understand how scientific methods can be applied to real-world environmental challenges. This experience sparked my curiosity not only about biological systems but also about the broader scientific principles that shape our natural world.
Your organization field and mission:
IMBRIW is the leading public research institution in Greece, with a key role in the Mediterranean region and the EU, spearheading fisheries and inland water research.
IMBRIW is Greece’s largest public research institute focusing on marine and inland water ecosystems
Please tell us briefly about your role in the company / at your organization:
- Pursue science-based conservation and management of aquatic ecosystems
- Provide scientific guidance to decision makers
- Supports public awareness and education for conserving marine and inland water environments
Your interest in STEM
My first role models were the scientists I watched in documentaries while growing up. I was inspired by the way they traveled the world, explored new environments, and shared their discoveries with the public. What impressed me most was not only their knowledge, but their passion for educating others and contributing to a better understanding of our planet.
At present, I am deeply inspired by my supervisor, Helen (Eleni) Kalogianni. She is an exceptional scientist who generously shares her knowledge and actively supports my professional development. Through her guidance, she has helped me grow scientifically and has given me valuable opportunities that contribute to my future career evolution.
Your studies
During my studies in ichthyology, my biggest challenge was strengthening my quantitative and statistical skills, as environmental research often requires handling complex datasets. At first, this was demanding, but I worked on improving through extra practice and guidance, which significantly increased my confidence in data analysis.
One of my main strengths was my passion for environmental science and field research, which kept me motivated even during demanding periods. The competitive nature of research opportunities was sometimes challenging, but it pushed me to become more disciplined, adaptable, and resilient.
Team work makes the dream work!
You at work
At HCMR and within IMBRIW, DEIS principles are reflected both in our research mission and institutional culture.
In terms of Sustainability, our core work focuses on the conservation and sustainable management of marine and inland water ecosystems, directly contributing to environmental protection and responsible resource use. Regarding Diversity and Inclusion, HCMR promotes interdisciplinary and international collaboration, bringing together scientists from different backgrounds and expertise. The institute also engages actively with local communities, stakeholders, and schools, ensuring that scientific knowledge is accessible and inclusive. In terms of Equity, early-career researchers are supported through participation in international projects, mobility opportunities, and mentorship within research teams, fostering professional growth and equal development opportunities.
What I am most proud of in my work is the professional respect I have earned from my colleagues and supervisors. As a female scientist working extensively in demanding field conditions in rivers and remote environments, gaining recognition for my competence, resilience, and scientific contribution has been particularly meaningful to me. I am also very proud of receiving a scholarship from WWF Hellas to work on the conservation of a critically endangered endemic freshwater species in Greece. This opportunity marked the beginning of my PhD journey, which I have just started, and represents both recognition of my work and a significant milestone in my academic development.
Your point of view
Technology can empower women by increasing access to education, information, and professional opportunities. Digital platforms make it easier for women to gain skills, participate in global networks, and access scientific knowledge regardless of geographical or social barriers. It also enables flexibility in work environments, which can help balance professional and personal responsibilities. In STEM fields especially, technology creates new career pathways and gives women the tools to lead research, innovation, and entrepreneurship. Importantly, technology can amplify women’s voices — through communication platforms, data transparency, and visibility in professional spaces — helping to challenge stereotypes and promote equality. However, true empowerment requires inclusive design and equal access, ensuring that women are not only users of technology but also creators and decision-makers in shaping it.
Keep it real and be passionate.
By 2030, I would like to see DEIS principles fully integrated into environmental research and field-based science — not as policies on paper, but as everyday practice.
I would like to see more women in leadership roles within research institutes, especially in field-intensive disciplines. Fieldwork should no longer be perceived as gender-biased, but as an inclusive space where competence and collaboration matter most. I also hope to see stronger support systems for early-career researchers — transparent funding opportunities, fair evaluation processes, and mentorship structures that ensure equal professional growth. In terms of inclusion, I would like science to become more connected with society, involving local communities more actively in conservation and decision-making processes.
And finally, sustainability should go beyond research topics and be reflected in how institutions operate — from responsible resource use to long-term environmental accountability. By 2030, I would like DEIS to be embedded in the culture of our sector, shaping not only who participates in science, but how science is conducted and shared.
To finish with
My core values are integrity, resilience, curiosity, and responsibility.
- Integrity is fundamental to me, both scientifically and personally. I believe in honest research, transparency, and taking responsibility for the impact of our work on society and the environment.
- Resilience has shaped my journey, especially through demanding fieldwork and competitive academic environments. I believe challenges are opportunities for growth.
- Curiosity drives my scientific path. The desire to understand natural systems and protect biodiversity is at the heart of my work.
- And finally, responsibility, toward ecosystems, future generations, and the communities affected by environmental decisions. Science, for me, is not only about discovery but about contributing meaningfully to sustainability and conservation
One of my future challenges will be maintaining a healthy balance between personal life and professional growth. As I advance in my career, especially within research and field-based science, the demands can be intense and time-consuming.
I want to continue evolving academically and professionally, while also preserving space for personal well-being and meaningful relationships. I believe long-term success in science requires sustainability not only in ecosystems, but also in our own lives.
For me, the challenge is not choosing between career and personal life, but learning how to build both in a balanced and intentional way.
The current activity has been implemented in the framework of the Project: Code4Europe,
GA Number: 101158834. Official project website : https://codeweek.eu/