Unlocking tomorrow: A woman’s quest

“With adaptability, passion, and dedication, anything is possible”

11th February International day for women in science! So let’s have a talk with Maria Chatzidaki, a young inspirational researcher in the field of STEM. Maria is a collaborator of Penelope in R&D for the utilization of natural ingredients sourced from Greek biodiversity.

Can you share a bit about your area of expertise and the specific focus of your scientific research?

My area of expertise lies at the interface of Chemical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, and Chemistry, with a primary focus on the formation of nanocarriers for the encapsulation of bioactive molecules.

Beginning my academic journey with a degree in Chemical Engineering from the National Technical University of Athens, I cultivated a strong foundation in chemical processes and materials science. This knowledge was further enriched during my master’s studies in biomedical engineering at Imperial College London, where I gained specialized expertise in applying engineering principles to address challenges in biology and medicine.

For my doctoral research, conducted at Örebro University in Sweden in collaboration with the National Hellenic Research Foundation in Greece, I immersed myself in the field of Chemistry. During this time, I delved deeply into the formulation and characterization of nanocarriers—nano-sized structures capable of encapsulating and delivering bioactive molecules.

My research interests span a wide range of applications, from food to cosmetics and medicine. I am passionate about leveraging nanotechnology to develop innovative solutions that enhance the efficacy, safety, and sustainability of products. By encapsulating bioactive compounds within nanocarriers, we can improve their stability, targeted delivery, and efficiency across various applications.

In summary, my expertise lies in designing, synthesizing, and characterizing nanocarriers for the encapsulation of bioactive molecules, with a focus on applications in food, cosmetics, and medicine. Through my research, I aim to contribute to the development of novel and sustainable products that promote health and well-being.

What inspired you to pursue a career in science, and how has your journey unfolded so far?

From a very young age, my insatiable curiosity led me on a journey of endless discovery and wonder. I was the kid who always had a question, eager to unravel the mysteries of the world around me. My friends would tease me for my habit of saying “may I ask you something?” because they knew I was constantly probing for knowledge and understanding.

This curiosity became the driving force behind my passion for science. I was captivated by the sheer diversity and complexity of the natural world—the way plants reached for the sun, animals adapted to their environments, and stars twinkled in the night sky. Each new discovery ignited my imagination and fueled my desire to learn more, propelling me on a lifelong journey of exploration and discovery.

What fascinates me most about science is its limitless potential. There are no boundaries to what we can explore or discover. Whether it’s delving into the depths of the ocean to study coral reefs, analyzing the intricate structure of proteins in rare mushrooms, or unraveling the mysteries of the cosmos, the possibilities are endless. Science offers a world of unlimited choices and boundless passion, where there is no right or wrong, only the pursuit of knowledge and understanding.

Along the way, I have faced challenges and setbacks, but my passion for science has never wavered. It has been a journey of growth, discovery, and fulfillment, and I am grateful for the opportunity to continue exploring the wonders of the world through the lens of science. My curiosity may still lead me to ask endless questions, but I wear it as a badge of honor—a symbol of my unwavering commitment to the pursuit of knowledge and my enduring fascination with the world around me.

Given your international profile, how do you see the global scientific community evolving, and what opportunities and challenges do you foresee for female scientists?

The evolution of the global scientific community towards gender equality is a promising yet complex journey. While there have been significant advancements in recent years, with more women and girls pursuing careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), substantial challenges persist.

Despite the growing presence of women in scientific fields, there remains a stark underrepresentation of females in leadership roles, such as principal investigators, CEOs, and entrepreneurs. This phenomenon underscores deep-seated biases and systemic barriers that hinder women’s progression to the highest echelons of scientific leadership.

While it’s encouraging to witness the increasing participation of women in STEM disciplines, it’s essential to recognize that mere representation is not enough. True gender equality necessitates a shift in cultural norms, organizational practices, and societal attitudes to create an environment where women can thrive and excel.

To my opinion, a very important problem apart from cultural and professional biases, is that women often contend with unique challenges such as balancing family responsibilities with career aspirations or navigating male-dominated professional networks. Also, a major challenge is overcoming the imposter syndrome—a pervasive feeling of inadequacy or self-doubt that disproportionately affects women in STEM.

To address these challenges and unlock the full potential of female scientists, concerted efforts are needed at individual, organizational, and societal levels. This entails fostering inclusive and supportive work environments that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion, implementing policies that mitigate gender-based biases and barriers, and providing mentorship, sponsorship, and professional development opportunities tailored to the needs of women in STEM.

Balancing a career in science with motherhood can be challenging. How do you manage to navigate the demands of both professional and personal life, and what advice would you offer to other aspiring female scientists and new mothers?

I used to believe that pursuing a career and motherhood were mutually exclusive, and I initially focused solely on my professional ambitions. However, my perspective shifted when I encountered incredible young women in science, PhD students, and professionals abroad who effortlessly balanced both family and career. It was eye-opening to witness the possibility of harmonizing these two aspects of life.

Returning to Greece, I faced the reality that our system lacks continuous and effective support for parenthood. Despite this challenge, becoming a mother has only fueled my determination to navigate the complexities of balancing professional and personal responsibilities.

Having my daughter has shown me that being true to oneself isn’t compromised by family obligations; rather, it amplifies our drive to succeed. Now, I am more driven than ever to achieve my goals, not just for myself, but also to serve as a role model for my daughter. I am committed to showing her that with adaptability, passion, and unwavering dedication, anything is possible. Together, we are rewriting the narrative and proving that women can thrive in both their careers and as loving mothers.

To aspiring female scientists and new mothers embarking on this journey, I would offer the following advice:

Build a Support Network: Surround yourself with supportive friends, family members, and colleagues who understand the challenges you face and can help when needed. Lean on this network for emotional support and practical help.

Practice Self-Care: Remember to prioritize your own well-being amidst the demands of work and motherhood. Carve out time for activities that recharge you, whether it’s exercise, hobbies, or simply taking moments to relax and unwind.

Be kind to yourself: From a young age, we’ve been conditioned to strive for perfection in every aspect of our lives. However, it’s important to recognize that perfection is an unattainable standard. Embrace your imperfections as they are what make you unique. Remember that moments of vulnerability and weakness are what connect us as human beings. They remind us of our shared humanity and allow for growth and compassion. So, be gentle with yourself, celebrate your flaws, and embrace the journey of self-discovery with love and acceptance.

What ethical considerations guide your research and work, and how do you hope to instill these values in future generations of scientists?

Ethical considerations serve as the guiding light in every facet of my research and professional journey. For me, being a scientist transcends the pursuit of knowledge; it embodies a profound sense of care and responsibility. It’s about recognizing the interconnectedness of our world and the impact of our actions on society, the environment, and future generations.

Integrity, respect for human dignity, and a deep-seated commitment to societal well-being are the cornerstones upon which I build my scientific endeavors. I view my role as a scientist as one of stewardship and advocacy, championing inclusivity, compassion, and sustainability in all that I do.

I firmly believe that science is not just about discovery—it’s about making a difference. It’s about leveraging our collective expertise to address pressing global challenges, from advancing healthcare and technology to safeguarding the environment and promoting social justice.

As scientists, we are not just observers; we are catalysts for change. We have the power—and the responsibility—to shape a better future for all. And it is this unwavering commitment to caring, to making a positive impact, that drives both my scientific research and my life’s purpose.

What role do you envision for yourself as a role model and inspirational figure, particularly for young girls aspiring to pursue careers in science?

I envision a future where I never lose my sense of wonder and my hunger for knowledge, where every discovery leads to a deeper understanding of the world around me. But beyond that, I see personal and professional growth intertwined with a profound sense of self-discovery and fulfillment.

To me, being a scientist is not just about making groundbreaking discoveries—it’s about caring for society, fostering self-love, and respecting every living creature. It’s about recognizing the interconnectedness of all life forms and striving to make the world a better place for everyone.

I aspire to lead by example, demonstrating that a career in science is not merely a means to achieve success—it’s a journey of continuous growth, exploration, and fulfillment. And my greatest hope is to inspire and empower young girls to embark on this journey with confidence, courage, and an unyielding sense of wonder.

I want to show them that they have the power to make a difference, to pursue their passions with purpose and determination. I want them to know that they are capable of achieving anything they set their minds to, and that their unique perspectives and contributions are invaluable to the scientific community and society as a whole.

Together, let’s embrace the adventure of science, let’s celebrate the joy of discovery, and let’s cultivate a future where every young girl feels empowered to pursue her dreams and change the world for the better.