Young Researchers at ISPRA Take the Spotlight

In April 2025, ISPRA (Italian Institute for Environmental Protection and Research) celebrated its vibrant research community during a dedicated internal event, showcasing the contributions of PhD students from across the globe. The gathering served as a platform for young researchers to present their work, share their experiences within ISPRA, and foster stronger collaboration across the Institute.

Among the highlights was the participation of Fatima-Ezzahrae Imam, a doctoral candidate whose research focuses on land degradation risk assessment and monitoring in the Mediterranean, a topic closely aligned with the goals of the EU-funded MONALISA project. Fatima is jointly supervised by Giovanna Seddaiu (University of Sassari, MONALISA Coordinator) and Francesca Assennato (ISPRA, MONALISA Community of Knowledge Lead), further illustrating the project’s strong connection to next-generation environmental scientists.

The event was also attended by ISPRA President Stefano Laporta and Director General Maria Siclari, who praised the integration of PhD students into the Institute’s research activities. Both emphasized the value of these collaborations in bringing fresh ideas, innovative methodologies, and international perspectives to ISPRA’s environmental mission.

ISPRA currently hosts 16 PhD students from Italy, Iran, Pakistan, Kenya, Morocco, and Greece, in collaboration with 15 universities. This initiative not only enhances scientific capacity but also reflects the Institute’s commitment to training the future leaders of environmental research and policy.

Through this event, MONALISA and its affiliated researchers continue to contribute to ISPRA’s dynamic academic environment, bridging science, policy, and innovation in the fight against land degradation.