My fascination with copepods and their ecological roles began during my PhD studies at the University of L’Aquila, where I delved into environmental sciences with a focus on groundwater ecosystems under the guidance of Prof. Diana Maria Paola Galassi. My research journey led me to explore the intersection of copepod ecology with environmental risk assessment and groundwater conservation, areas I further developed through extensive collaborative projects across Europe. My tenure at the CNR has been marked by a commitment to understanding and preserving subterranean biodiversity, with a particular emphasis on copepods. My work has contributed to the scientific community through enhancing our understanding of groundwater copepods’ metabolism and sensitivity to toxicants. This has been complemented by my involvement in international projects and my role in fostering next-generation scientists through my supervision of master and PhD students. I have organized and participated in numerous international conferences, bringing together experts from various fields to advance our knowledge and methodologies in groundwater copepod research. My dedication to understanding the functional diversity of groundwater copepods has led to my recent appointment as a member of the National Biodiversity Future Center (NBFC) of Italy, a prestigious institution aimed at promoting and coordinating biodiversity research and conservation efforts across the nation. The NBFC serves as a hub for scientific and policy-oriented activities, facilitating the collaboration among researchers, governmental bodies, and environmental organizations to ensure the preservation and sustainable management of Italy's rich biodiversity. My ongoing efforts in international collaboration have established strong networks that continue to support my scientific pursuits and contributions to the field of copepodology.

As Vice-President, I aim to leverage my research background and international collaborations to enhance the global prominence of copepodology. Over the past four years, serving on the Council of the International Society of Subterranean Biology has deepened my appreciation for subterranean ecosystems' complexities. I am now organizing the next International Conference on Subterranean Biology, a key platform for promoting the field, with a particular focus on the critical role of groundwater copepods. These organisms are pivotal in advancing our understanding of groundwater biodiversity and ecosystem functionality. My objective is to raise the profile of groundwater copepods within both the scientific community and the public sphere. To achieve broader societal engagement, I have served as a keynote speaker in diverse conferences, including in geosciences and political forums, to communicate the importance of copepods and the ecosystem services they provide. By demystifying scientific jargon, I aim to improve dialogue between scientists and the wider public, thereby fostering appreciation and understanding of groundwater copepods' crucial roles in biodiversity conservation and environmental sustainability. I am dedicated to enriching opportunities for emerging scientists, promoting their growth and fostering innovative approaches in copepod research, with the goal of amplifying the impact of our work worldwide.