Celebrating International Day of Women and Girls in Science

In honour of this day, we spoke with some of our remarkable female scientists to learn about their paths into sciences, their challenges and triumphs and we’ll be sharing their stories over the next few weeks.

Valentina’s research aims to examine vulnerability to and recovery of brain and mental health harms in chronic addictions and psychopathology, by combining advanced multimodal neuroimaging tools, global multi-site cohorts and new interventions.

How did you become a scientist?

I started as a bachelor and then a masters student in clinical psychology with the ultimate goal to be trained to support people who experience difficulties with mental health. That goal changed when I fell in love with neuroscience during my masters, learning about the emotional neurocircuitry and mirror neurons during a biological psychology course.

What is your most memorable experience as a scientist?

When I found out that I was awarded a PhD scholarship, it was one of the most memorable days of my life. I felt like I was walking on clouds – being given the opportunity to be paid to learn for the next three years was an incredible privilege and thrill. Now, as I guide my own PhD students and watch them graduate, surrounded by their family and friends celebrating the conclusion of their epic journey; it is a truly an incredible moment that I am proud to be part of.

What challenges have you faced or obstacles you have overcome as a female in the scientific community?

As a migrant from Italy, with English as my second language, I’ve had to navigate how others perceive me, which often differs from how I see myself. Early on, I learned to focus on the science and let my work speak for itself.

I also view emotions as a natural and valuable part of communication, even in a professional or academic setting - something that might challenge the more stereotypical, formal approach often associated with science and academia. Rather than seeing this as a barrier, I consider it an opportunity to connect with others.

Ultimately, staying focused on what truly matters and avoiding distractions has been key to overcoming challenges and continuing to make progress in my career.

What would you like to say to today's girls and women aspiring to become scientists?

Always aim for the stars, don’t limit yourself, or let others box you in. And stay flexible.

Why is it important to have women entering and influencing science arenas?

I think that having diversity present in all aspects of the research cycle is critical to ensure a balanced, systematic and inclusive approach to scientific progress. There is substantial evidence that a lack of diversity has resulted in significant oversights that disproportionately disadvantage minority groups or even society as a whole.

I was honoured to be awarded a place in the Veski Inspiring Women in STEM leadership program, designed to empower women aspiring to leadership roles. As you advance in STEM, the representation of women diminishes significantly at the top. Increasing the presence of women in scientific leadership roles is essential and I am keen to be an active contributor to this change.

How do you balance your career and other areas of life?

It can be a difficult balance to achieve especially when you choose to be a competitive academic on a research path. Having a supportive partner who is happy for me to succeed and who I can share my achievements with has been critical.

Learn more about Valentina’s work here, the 2022 Al & Val Rostenstrauss Fellowship and her place in the Veski Inspiring Women in STEM program.