Eliana Quarterone is working in the research field of sustainable and innovative green chemistry recycling routes for batteries. We asked how Eliana fell in love with science. “I fell in love with chemistry the first time I saw the Periodic Table of Elements. I was fascinated by the beauty of this apparently simple grid, full of colours, numbers and letters, which explains everything that exists and in a certain sense tells the story of the Universe.”
Now, Eliana leads the Electrochemistry and Energy Materials group at the University of Pavia, focused on the design of innovative and smart systems for Lithium- and Sodium Ion batteries. I’m particularly interested in the understanding of transport and electrochemical mechanisms through the study of structural/functional properties relationship and the R2BATT lab.

What do women and girls bring to the field of science and battery research? 
Eliana shared her thoughts citing Oscar Wilde “You know what a woman’s curiosity is”. She stated that, “curiosity is the driving force behind exploration. Therefore, women are naturally predisposed to do science and science cannot do without women. For this reason, we need to encourage the presence of women in battery research, acting on different levels. At an educational level: inspiring and guiding new generations to pursue their dreams and ambitions with determination based on their personal talent; at a professional level, guaranteeing welfare system to enhance women’s careers, reduce the gender gap and prevent women from having to choose between career and family.”

Carmen Cavallo is managing the R&D section focused on advanced characterisations and the development of anode materials for next-generation batteries that will provide safer, more efficient, cost-effective energy solutions while supporting the global transition to renewable energy and electrification. Carmen developed a passion for science early in her life: “I loved following my dad around, first in the workshop, where I was fascinated by how things were built and repaired, and then in the kitchen, where I saw chemistry come to life through cooking and baking. Those experiences nurtured my curiosity about how materials interact and change, leading me to pursue both engineering and chemistry.”

What do women and girls bring to the field of science and battery research? Carmen thinks that “science offers endless opportunities for discovery”, and definitely that “encouraging more women to enter battery research requires a multi-faceted approach. Early exposure to STEM fields through education, mentorship programs, and strong role models is essential. Universities and research institutions must foster inclusive environments by addressing biases and ensuring equal opportunities in hiring and career progression. Additionally, industry collaborations and funding initiatives should actively support women-led projects to increase visibility and participation. Promoting work-life balance is also crucial, as flexible policies and supportive work environments can help retain talented women in the field and make research careers more accessible. By fostering an inclusive and supportive culture, we can attract more women into battery research and ensure they thrive in their careers.”

Yosra Snoussi is working on developing sustainable and circular solutions for battery recycling. Her research is based on recovering and purifying valuable components from battery waste and analyses to ensure that the recovered materials meet high-quality standards for reuse in new batteries, therefore reducing waste and supporting green energy storage systems. Her interest in science started from a young age. “I have always been curious about how the world works, especially in the field of chemistry and how materials act at the smallest levels. This curiosity led me to study science, where I could learn how different materials change and interact. With my background in organic chemistry and materials science, I have always enjoyed the challenge of solving complex problems and finding new solutions. Research gives me the chance to explore new ideas, and each discovery opens up even more questions to answer. After completing my Ph.D., I chose to work in the field of battery research, which was new to me. Although I have only been in this area for a short time, I have already gained valuable experience and look forward to continuing to grow and learn more.”

What do women and girls bring to the field of science and battery research?
Yosra told us: “To get more women into battery research, we need to create supportive environments, offer equal opportunities, and provide strong role models. It is important to show that science is open to anyone who is willing to learn, no matter their background. My own experience shows that, even with a background in organic chemistry and materials science, it is possible to enter the battery field and make a real impact. Science has no limits, and by encouraging curiosity and offering support, we can inspire more women to join this exciting area.”

We could not end this article without commemorating and promoting other women who are key figures in our research development, such as Fiorenza Daprile from SYENSQO, Caterina Colombo from ERP, or Gülizar Kaya from Organik Kimya. Together, we celebrate this International Day of Women and Girls in Science, especially in the field of battery research and industrial upscaling, inviting everyone to be part of these innovative solutions!