In celebration of International Day of Women and Girls in Science on 11 February, the POLINA project is delighted to present an interview with Martina Papa, the newest partner from 4DCELL, whose work is driving forward innovation within the consortium.
The International Day of Women and Girls in Science is a United Nations-designated observance aimed at recognising the essential contributions of women and girls to scientific advancement and promoting gender equality in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). It underscores the need for full and equal participation in research and innovation worldwide to address global challenges effectively.
Martina Papa, Production manager and Work Package Leader at 4DCELL, shared inspiring insights in the video interview released to coincide with this global occasion. She highlights how female scientists play a pivotal role in advancing research, and she emphasised the importance of encouraging young people, especially girls, to consider careers in STEM. Her reflections align with broader efforts to dismantle barriers and create more inclusive scientific environments across Europe and beyond.
As a partner in the POLINA project, Martina contributes to cutting-edge research that combines novel light-sensitive amino acid material platforms with photolithographic techniques to advance next-generation biocompatible materials and biomedical solutions. The project itself brings together a multidisciplinary consortium of academic and industrial partners from across Europe, including 4DCELL, accelopment and several research institutions.
The interview not only showcases Martina’s personal perspective and professional journey but also serves as a call to action: to support diversity in science and empower the next generation of innovators. In her message, she urges young scientists to embrace curiosity and resilience as they embark on careers that shape the future of research and technology.
The POLINA consortium extends its warmest welcome to Martina and reaffirms its commitment to fostering an environment where diverse voices in science can thrive and inspire.