Engineering is increasingly about understanding not only how technologies work, but also how they impact the world around us. From resource use to environmental performance, assessing sustainability has become a key part of innovation.
As part of our Women in Engineering series, we spoke with Giulia Cortina, a PhD researcher in Industrial Engineering at the University of Florence. In the HARMONY project, she focuses on Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), evaluating the sustainability of new recycling processes for permanent magnets.
Giulia shares how her interest in environmental protection shaped her path, what motivates her work in sustainability research, and why confidence and resilience are essential for young women entering engineering.
Profile
. Name: Giulia Cortina
Role: PhD Researcher (Industrial & Environmental Engineering)
Organisation: Università degli Studi di Firenze
Country: Italy
Field: Environmental engineering, sustainability, LCA
Education: BSc. Civil, Construction, and Environmental Engineering & MSc. Environmental and Land Protection Engineering
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/giulia-cortina-5696b3303/
Finding a path into engineering
What first sparked your interest in science?
“I have always been curious about how the world works and fascinated by natural phenomena. From a young age, I enjoyed science and problem-solving, and I was especially interested in the environment.”
That interest naturally evolved into a clear direction.
“I have always loved science and problem-solving, so a STEM path felt natural. My focus on Environmental Engineering developed over time as I realized I wanted to combine science with a desire to protect the environment and promote sustainable solutions.”
From studies to engineering research
What did you study, and what drew you to it?
“I studied Environmental Engineering, completing both my bachelor’s and master’s degrees in this field. I was drawn to this course of study by a strong interest in environmental protection and a desire to contribute to the preservation of natural resources.”
Today, Giulia continues this path as a PhD researcher, focusing on sustainability in industrial systems.
“As a PhD student, my typical day mainly consists of research activities related to various national and European projects, all focusing on sustainability and life cycle assessment.”
“This includes collecting and analyzing data, evaluating industrial processes, collaborating with project partners, and documenting results.”
Contributing to magnet recycling and circular technologies
Giulia’s work in HARMONY focuses on evaluating whether new recycling processes are truly sustainable.
“My work focuses on Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), where we evaluate whether the new recycling process for permanent magnets performs better in terms of environmental, social, and economic sustainability compared to conventional processes.”
“This is essential because it allows us to assess whether we are moving in the right direction and whether the proposed solution is truly more sustainable.”
Her work involves detailed analysis of real industrial processes.
“I collect and analyze process data such as material flows, energy consumption, and chemicals used, to assess overall impacts and support informed decision-making.”
What motivates her most is the broader impact of this work.
“What excites me most is working at the intersection of innovation, sustainability, and real-world impact.”
“Knowing that this work can help guide better design and policy decisions and support the transition toward a more circular and resilient economy is particularly rewarding.”
Women in engineering
Giulia also reflects on challenges she has experienced in the field.
“There were situations where external partners tended to address only my male colleagues, assuming they were more knowledgeable.”
“Over time, I learned to focus on demonstrating my expertise through my work and not let these assumptions affect my confidence.”
What message would you give to young women?
“Engineering is for anyone curious, motivated, and interested in solving real-world problems, regardless of gender.”
“Do not let stereotypes define your choices. Your perspective and skills are valuable, and the field needs more diverse voices.”
Advice for future engineers
Looking ahead, Giulia highlights both technical and personal skills.
“Solid scientific and analytical skills are fundamental, but equally important are critical thinking, adaptability, and confidence in your own abilities.”
“Collaboration, communication, and openness to interdisciplinary work are key, especially for challenges like sustainability and circular economy.”
Even on difficult days, her motivation remains clear.
“On challenging days, what keeps me motivated is knowing that even though my contribution may be small, it can help develop something much bigger.”
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.
Read more interviews:
Women in Engineering: Gabriela Sarriegui on materials research and magnet recycling
Women in Engineering: Pranali Jadhav on international careers and process engineering
Women in Engineering: Ana Drmota Petrič on developing recycled magnets for industry
Women in Engineering: Aurélie Villemur on materials engineering and electric motors
Women in Engineering: Simonetta Cota on design, creativity, and circular engineering
Women in Engineering: Valentina Zhukova on magnetic materials and long careers in research