Women in Engineering: Research manager Filomena Calzone

Engineering and scientific breakthroughs rarely happen in isolation. Behind every successful research project is a team that ensures ideas can be developed, managed, and delivered effectively.

As part of our Women in Engineering series, we spoke with Filomena Calzone, Research Manager and Head of Project Office at Politecnico di Milano. In the HARMONY project, she works at the intersection of research, finance, and administration, helping ensure that complex EU-funded research runs smoothly and in compliance with funding rules.

Filomena shares what drew her to working in a science-driven environment, how her role supports researchers and engineers, and why coordination and administration are essential to making innovation possible.

Profile

Name: Filomena Calzone

Role: Research Manager & Head of Project Office

Organisation: Politecnico di Milano

Country: Italy

Field: Research management, project coordination

Working at the interface of science and administration

What originally attracted you to working in a science- and engineering-focused environment?

“I have always been attracted by environments where knowledge, innovation, and problem-solving are central. Working in a science- and engineering-focused context allows me to contribute to impactful research without being directly involved in the technical work.”

“I find it motivating to support projects that address real-world challenges. My work helps create the conditions for researchers and engineers to focus on innovation and scientific excellence.”

Filomena’s role in HARMONY reflects this motivation.

“I work in an administrative support role within the HARMONY project, focusing on financial management and reporting in EU-funded research. My responsibilities include supporting financial reporting, monitoring project expenditures, ensuring compliance with funding rules, and assisting researchers with administrative and bureaucratic requirements.”

“By acting as a link between scientific teams and the administrative framework, I help ensure the project runs smoothly and in line with European Commission regulations.”

Supporting innovation behind the scenes

What does your day-to-day work in HARMONY look like, and why is it essential?

“My day-to-day work involves monitoring project expenses, supporting partners during reporting periods, and checking financial documentation. I ensure that costs are eligible, accurate, and properly justified.”

“I also assist with administrative procedures related to contracts, amendments, and reporting deadlines. This work is essential because strong financial and administrative management ensures compliance with EU rules, reduces risks, and allows the project to progress without delays.”

Enabling researchers and engineers

How does your role support scientific and technical partners?

“I support partners by translating administrative and financial requirements into clear and practical guidance. By helping them understand funding rules, reporting obligations, and documentation standards, I reduce their administrative burden and prevent issues during audits or reviews.”

This allows researchers to focus on their core work.

“It enables scientists and engineers to dedicate more time and energy to their research and innovation activities.”

Filomena also values the collaborative nature of research projects.

“What I enjoy most is working with people who are passionate about their work and driven by curiosity and innovation. Even from an administrative perspective, it is intellectually stimulating. It offers continuous learning and exposure to cutting-edge research.”

“I also value the teamwork that develops when administrative and technical roles work together toward shared goals.”

Why project management matters in research

“Projects like HARMONY involve multiple partners, countries, disciplines, and regulatory requirements. Strong project management provides structure, clarity, and coordination. It ensures that activities align with objectives, timelines, and funding rules.”

“Without this backbone, even excellent scientific ideas risk delays, non-compliance, or inefficient use of resources.”

Women in STEM beyond the laboratory

Why is it important to highlight support roles in STEM projects?

“Support and coordination roles are fundamental to STEM projects, even if they remain behind the scenes. Highlighting these roles shows that research is a collective effort. Scientific excellence depends on effective administration, coordination, and communication.

Without this foundation, even strong research can face challenges.

“Without this backbone, excellent scientific ideas risk being compromised by delays or inefficient use of resources.”

“Recognising these contributions also makes research environments more inclusive and helps young people understand the range of careers in science and innovation.”

What has your experience been like as a woman in this environment?

“My experience has been very positive and enriching. I have worked with professionals from diverse backgrounds and cultures, where competence and collaboration are highly valued.

While STEM is often seen as male-dominated, support roles offer meaningful opportunities for women to contribute, grow professionally, and play an essential role in complex research projects.”

Advice for future professionals

What skills are important for roles connecting administration, communication, and science?

“Organizational abilities, attention to detail, communication skills, and a willingness to learn are essential.”

“An interest in science is also helpful, even without a technical background, as it helps you understand the needs of researchers.

“Flexibility, problem-solving, and the ability to connect scientific, administrative, and financial perspectives are especially valuable.”

What would you like young women to know about these careers?

“Behind every successful research project is a diverse team of professionals whose contributions are essential. Careers in research support offer meaningful work, international collaboration, and the opportunity to contribute to impactful scientific advancements.

These roles allow you to combine administrative skills with curiosity, responsibility, and a strong sense of purpose.”

About the series

This interview is part of the HARMONY Women in Engineering series, highlighting the diverse women working across Europe to advance magnet recycling and circular technologies.