Professor
University of Florence
Country of origin: Italy
What I do.
I am a retired professor of physics from the University of Florence (Firenze) Italy, and am now a professor of optics, teaching and also doing research, in the same university. My present research subject, both theoretical and experimental, is laser propagation in the atmosphere.
What I find exciting.
Finding new results or solving difficult problems, such as disagreement between theory and experimental results, and sharing this "adventure" with young students is the most exciting part. Another part is finding important new subjects or entering new research fields. I also have met many people from all over the world, and have established long-lasting friendships.
What I wish someone had told me.
Learn more foreign languages, but mostly, have more self confidence and be active in taking the opportunities. I was never told that a woman, from a background with no scientific tradition, could compete with men and reach typical male positions. As the first and, up to now, only woman president of the International Commission for Optics (ICO) in 60 years, I encourage you to go after being the second.