Ι'm Chrysovalantou (yes, the whole thing!), I grew up in Korinos, in the Pieria region, with roots in historic Pontos. My interdisciplinary and highly non-linear research journey began at the University of Crete (UoC, Greece), with the first stop being Applied Mathematics (B.Sc.). Driven by my innate curiosity and a gluttony for new knowledge, I found myself on the second stop of this journey, the Interinstitutional Master's Program in Bioinformatics (FORTH, Medical School, UoC), where Ι discovered a new passion, systems biology; an exciting interdisciplinary field which uses a holistic approach to understand the complex interactions within biological systems. This led me to the next stop, my Ph.D. in Computational Engineering at the University of Luxembourg, where I studied how physical forces and mechanical properties influence cellular and physiological functions. Currently, I am exploring new adventures and destinations on my research journey.

I joined Greek Women in STEM on its onset following my need to be part of a safe community of support, guidance, and empowerment. I am very proud because we have built much more than that, something unique with a significant social impact. As a member of the executive board, I contribute to high-level decision-making, shaping the strategic direction of the organization. As the Vice President of Organizational Development and Human Resources, I have an overview of organizational development and internal operations, while I lead initiatives to enhance workforce performance and organizational effectiveness, by designing and implementing management programs such as recruitment, training, and team development. 

Besides research and GWiS, my multifaceted nature includes a deep fascination with literature, culture, art, and history. I am captivated by people's stories and the marks they leave on the world. I am invigorated by historic and literary walks, seeking hidden narratives. I am also a nature lover and passionate hiker, a perfect excuse to get lost in forests, gorges, mountains…