My academic background is in psychology. I completed my Bachelor’s degree in Scienze e Tecniche Psicologiche at the University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, and later earned my Master’s degree in Community Psychology, Promotion of Well-being, and Social Change from the University of Padua. This background has allowed me to combine individual-focused psychological research with a strong interest in community-level well-being and social impact.

My research interests include primarily sexual psychology, focusing on both individuals and couples. I am particularly passionate about understanding how sexuality is experienced, expressed, and influenced by various psychosocial and physiological factors. My current and past research projects include topics such as female sexuality and the menstrual cycle, masturbation in couples, infertility and its impact on sexual pleasure and intimacy, sexual novelty and planned sex, and overall sexual and relational well-being. I am especially interested in the intersections between sexual function, emotional intimacy, and relationship dynamics in couples undergoing infertility treatments.

In terms of research methodology, I am developing experience across a variety of approaches—qualitative, quantitative, and physiological. Since June 2024, I have been collaborating with PhD student Celeste Bittoni and the Padova Sex Lab on a study exploring female orgasms using both EEG (electroencephalography) and in-depth qualitative interviews. This project has allowed me to gain hands-on experience with EEG equipment, refine the experimental lab setting for improved data quality, and develop skills in participant interaction and data collection. Additionally, I undertook a six-month Erasmus internship at Maastricht University under the supervision of Professor Marieke Dewitte. During this time, I conducted a laboratory study involving physiological measures such as vaginal photoplethysmography and penile plethysmography, and co-designed a research protocol that is currently ongoing at Maastricht. These experiences have deepened my skills in conducting psychophysiological research in sexual science. For my Master’s thesis, I conducted a one-year-long quantitative study involving the administration of questionnaires, which strengthened my understanding of survey design, participant management, and ethical debriefing practices. I continue to expand my knowledge of sexual psychology through a postgraduate program in Sexual Counseling at Centro Clinico Crocetta in Turin.

Beyond my academic pursuits in sexual psychology, my background in community psychology and social project management informs much of my work. I did an internship at Cooperativa GEA, where I learned to design and implement community-based social projects. I’m passionate about bridging academic research with real-world social contexts and creating tools for social change. This passion has led me to participate in several Erasmus+ training projects. For example, I took part in a 10-day Erasmus project in Finland at the Ankkapurha Youth Centre focused on outdoor and adventure education. There, I learned how to design games and activities that foster social connection, empowerment, and community engagement through nature and informal education. I also joined another 10-day Erasmus project in Portugal with Agora Aveiro, where I collaborated with young people from across Europe to create innovative social initiatives like Human Libraries, guerrilla marketing campaigns, and Forum Theatre workshops aimed at increasing social awareness and cohesion.

Moreover, I am an active member of the Padova Sex Lab—a research and outreach lab focused on sexual psychology, rights, and education. Through this group, I help organize outreach events and third-mission initiatives such as: “Alla scoperta dell’America: uno sguardo sulla ricerca della sessualità attraverso la musica” in collaboration with Corollario Unipd, “Sì, ah! Parliamo di piacere” in collaboration with UDU Padova, “Spritziamo di salute” – an evening event in collaboration with the University of Turin combining social games with discussion on vulvodynia and sexual health. These initiatives aim to promote open dialogue about sexual health and pleasure in accessible, inclusive formats using social media, music, games, and community events.

Alongside my academic and research activities, I have strong personal interests in volunteering, intercultural dialogue, leadership, and the intersection of spirituality and the arts. Since I was 17, I have participated every summer in a formation program called Zipoli organized by Associazione Cecilia, which uses music, dance, capoeira, and art to educate young people in pedagogy, intercultural exchange, leadership, and spiritual growth. I am also involved with Popoli Insieme, a local association that supports refugees and migrants in integrating into Italian society by creating spaces for mutual exchange and community-building. Additionally, I live in a youth community at the Centro Antonianum in Padua with around 60 young adults, where we co-organize cultural events, promote cooperation, and engage in social service projects aimed at enhancing the local community.

In summary, my journey as a researcher is deeply interdisciplinary and grounded in both rigorous scientific research and a strong commitment to community and social impact. I aim to continue bridging the gap between academic knowledge and real-world application, especially in the areas of sexual health, education, and social well-being.