The Team

Professor at the Department of Physics, University of Naples Federico II, she is the Principal Investigator of the FORESEEING project. She investigates the fascinating mysteries of the earthquake process and works to improve Earthquake Early Warning systems. Inspired by the Socratic spirit of dialogue, she is always open to learning and discussing science, ideas, music, and much more.

Researcher of INGV, she is a physicist, seismologist and experimentalist at the HPHT – Laboratory of Rocks and Earthquake Mechanics in Rome. She studies the physical-chemical processes that generate earthquakes in the Earth’s crust. In Galileo Galilei’s words she believes in “Measure what is measurable, and to make measurable what is not”. Because only what is measurable can be improved, as Thomas Samuel Khun concluded.

As a member of the experimental working group  I coordinate, execute, and interpret data from laboratory experiments aimed at understanding earthquake processes. Trained as a geologist, I developed a strong interest in structural geology early on, with a particular focus on fault deformation. My PhD research at Durham University provided extensive hands-on experience in brittle rock mechanics and in designing laboratory methods to simulate deformation in Earth’s upper crust—where faults are active and generate earthquakes. A key component of my work involves integrating sensors to monitor seismic activity during lab experiments.

Valeria is a postdoc at University of Naples Federico II. She has a big passion for earthquakes—yes, those ground-shaking moments that connect everything from deep Earth processes to early warning systems. She loves how seismology brings it all together! When she’s not chasing seismic waves, you’ll probably find her buried in a good book, binge-watching movies or TV series, or planning her next trip!

Chiara is a geophysicist whose research focuses on the mechanical behavior of faults, particularly under the influence of fluids, and how these processes affect earthquake nucleation, propagation, and induced seismicity. Her scientific interests lie at the intersection of rock mechanics, seismology, and geomechanics, with a particular emphasis on understanding the physical mechanisms that govern fault slip in both natural and anthropogenic settings.

His research deals with the deformation processes governing dynamic strength of geomaterials, through  a multidisciplinary research approach, involving simulation of earthquakes with rock deformation experiments, modelling and observation of microstructures.

Sonia is a Research Projects and Laboratory Manager with over 20 years of highly specialized experience in the management, reporting, and technical-administrative support of national and European research projects. She has built her career primarily at the University of Naples Federico II, particularly within the “Ettore Pancini” Department of Physics, where she has played a central role in the operational and strategic management of projects in the fields of seismology, environmental risk, and scientific infrastructure.

Pietro is a community designer with an interdisciplinary background. He completed his academic training at the Department of Architecture of Federico II University in Napoli. His work leverages the potential of digital technology to shape new forms of community, applying it to user-centered design solutions through innovative approaches focused on visualizing and formalizing emerging social needs and bottom-up practices.