International Women’s Day: let’s celebrate our female researchers! Interview with Maria Vrachioli

Together with our sister projects of the Water Governance 2027 Synergy Group, GOVAQUA and InnWater, we are delighted to dedicate this article to our female researchers to promote their work and careers around the development of water governance approaches.

These innovative approaches take into account the interdependencies between the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the design of coherent water governance practices and policies at different levels and in different sectors.

As part of RETOUCH NEXUS, we interviewed Ms Maria Vrachioli, Senior Researcher  at the Technical University of Munich and our Project Manager.

Career and challenges

Q.: Could you share your journey to becoming a researcher? What inspired you to pursue this path, what challenges have you faced as a woman in your field, and what is the most valuable lesson you’ve learned from these experiences?

Ms Vrachioli: As a first-generation female researcher, I pursued this path with curiosity and determination. Societal changes have eased challenges, though some biases still remain. I’ve learned that perseverance matters more than background, and strong networks help create more opportunities in academia.

Role in the project

Q.: What do you do within the InnWater project? How have your studies and expertise enabled you to fulfil this role?

Ms Vrachioli: In the RETOUCH NEXUS project, I lead the socio-economic and environmental assessments of water governance. I also coordinate the project coordination across multiple partners. My background in economics, particularly in environmental and resource economics, equips me to analyze the economic implications of water use in different systems. This expertise allows me to assess how policy interventions can socially and economically optimize water resource management.

Europe

Q.: At European level, do you think the research sector has become more open to women? What could be done to achieve greater equality between men and women in this field?

Ms Vrachioli: The research sector in Europe has certainly become more open to women, with societal shifts making the journey smoother. However, despite progress, challenges persist, particularly in leadership positions and in certain fields. To achieve greater equality, we need stronger actions, like support mentorship programs and promote a better work-life balance. We need to encourage environments where success is based on talent and hard work, not gender. This is key to achieving gender equality in research.

Q.: As an expert in sustainable water governance, what do you see as Europe’s greatest challenge in implementing sustainable water governance?

Ms Vrachioli: From an economics perspective, Europe’s most significant challenge in implementing sustainable water governance is balancing economic growth with the increasing pressures of climate change on water resources. Ensuring that water pricing reflects its true economic value, incentivizes conservation, and supports equitable access while maintaining economic stability is crucial for long-term sustainability.

Q.: Finally, what advice would you give to future generations of women who want to become researchers?

“Persistence and passion are your greatest assets—keep pushing forward!“

Maria Vrachioli

Read other interviews with the researchers: