You’re involved in so many different activities – could you share what part of your work brings you the most joy? What makes you say “yes” to a new project, task, or responsibility?

What brings me the most joy is knowing that my work contributes directly to the decarbonization of energy systems and the reduction of environmental impacts in sectors such as transport, industry, and power generation. I’m driven by the opportunity to lead multidisciplinary projects where research translates into applied solutions — not just concepts, but tangible technologies that improve our collective future.

I choose to engage in new projects when they align with a clear scientific vision, offer real-world impact, and involve strong, multidisciplinary collaboration. One example is ALRIGH2T, a European project that I coordinate. It aims to develop and test innovative technologies and processes for refuelling liquid hydrogen aircraft in real airport conditions, paving the way for the decarbonization of the aviation sector. Working at the intersection of advanced research, system integration, and operational testing is where I find the most energy and purpose.

What initially inspired you to pursue a career in hydrogen research, and what currently excites you most about this field?

From the very beginning, I was inspired by hydrogen’s unique characteristics, as a clean, flexible, and storable energy carrier, capable of transforming how we think about energy production, storage, and consumption. Over the years, this early curiosity evolved into a deep commitment to advancing hydrogen and fuel cell technologies for real-world use.

Today, what excites me most is the momentum we’re seeing globally, across policy, industry, and research, to implement hydrogen as a pillar of the energy transition. I’m also proud to serve as Chair of the IEA’s Technical Collaboration Programme (TCP) on Advanced Fuel Cells, where we coordinate global efforts in research, development, benchmarking, and modelling of electrochemical energy conversion systems.

The TCP serves as a platform to align science, policy, and market development and I am honoured to guide this effort at such a critical time for energy innovation.

What accomplishment(s) are you most proud of? Why?

I’m particularly proud of my role in representing Italy within key international organizations such as Hydrogen Europe Research and the IEA. Being entrusted to coordinate complex international initiatives such as the IEA TCP on Advanced Fuel Cells, which brings together scientists, engineers, and policymakers from over 20 countries, is a major milestone.

These roles are not only about scientific leadership; they’re about building vision, fostering dialogue between disciplines and sectors, and translating shared goals into action. Being part of this global ecosystem of knowledge and innovation is a privilege, and I see it as a responsibility to represent both the scientific community and the broader public interest.

Can you share a significant challenge you faced in your career and how you overcame it?

One significant challenge has been balancing technical depth with the ability to lead large, diverse teams, especially in projects where engineering, policy, economics, and regulation intersect. Early in my career, I realized that scientific excellence alone was not enough; leadership requires clarity, empathy, and the ability to communicate across different cultures and expertise.

I overcame this by actively developing my communication skills and by listening to different perspectives. Creating trust among project partners, understanding institutional dynamics, and promoting common purpose have helped me turn challenges into opportunities for impact.

In your experience, do you think women have the same chances to succeed in the field as men have? Why yes, or why not?

Yes, I firmly believe that women have all the skills, knowledge, and vision needed to thrive in scientific and technological fields. In hydrogen research — as in many areas of STEM — talent, curiosity, and perseverance are what make the difference. We are increasingly seeing environments that recognize the value of diverse perspectives and inclusive leadership.
What’s important now is to continue building these inclusive cultures, to support role models, and to ensure that everyone, regardless of gender, has the opportunity to contribute fully. Women can and should be part of the change, and we all have a role in making this the norm, not the exception.

What advice would you give to young women considering a career in hydrogen research or STEM fields in general? What would you say to your own young self just starting out?

To young women I say: believe in your abilities. Be curious, ambitious, and surround yourself with people who value your voice. A career in science can take you far when driven by passion and resilience. To my younger self, I would say: don’t be afraid to take the lead. Keep learning, stay grounded in your values, and embrace every opportunity to grow, even when it feels uncertain. The path you’re on has meaning, and the impact you’ll create will be both lasting and worthwhile.

One of the aspects she enjoys most is the opportunity to work as a researcher while collaborating closely with industry. She finds satisfaction in her ability to collaborate closely with industrial partners while contributing to the scientific community. The Aragon Hydrogen Foundation facilitates this synergy, serving as a bridge between academia, research centres, and industry, addressing gaps in technology development and implementation.

Hydrogen, for Vanesa, “was like love at first sight”. This enthusiasm has driven her career, inspiring her to explore and apply innovative solutions across various fields. One of her biggest accomplishments is the ability to pursue her professional goals while balancing her responsibilities as a mother – an accomplishment that highlights her belief that personal and professional goals can successfully coexist.

Throughout her career, she faced challenges, such as the common belief that research only takes place in universities. The Aragon Hydrogen Foundation is recognised by the Aragon government as an important research institution, and she has helped change the view of where important research can happen.

Diversity, in all forms, an important part of how Vanesa drives innovation. She emphasizes the importance of bringing together varied perspectives to tackle complex challenges, advocating for inclusion not only in terms of gender but across all dimensions of diversity.