The Sceptical Chymist | Reactions: Gabriella Graziano

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Gabriella Graziano is an Associate Editor for Nature Reviews Chemistry.GabriellaGraziano

1. What made you want to be a chemist?

My interest for science started pretty early. When I was 11 and I had the chance to meet a very passionate science teacher who transferred to me a curiosity for natural events.  Although an interest in science has been constant in my studies, I’ve never been sure which particular subject I wanted to focus on more – physics, chemistry, biology or medical sciences – until I attended a talk on how to change certain properties of the surface of a material by changing its chemistry. After that talk it was clear to me that I wanted to study chemistry.

2. If you weren’t a chemist and could do any other job, what would it be – and why?

I’d most likely be a musician. I’ve studied music since I was a kid and I’ve always played in one way or another, plus my  passion for music has always been in competition with my passion for science, so why not!

3. What are you working on now, and where do you hope it will lead?

I just started as associate editor for Nature Reviews Chemistry and I am currently working with the rest of the team toward the launch of the journal. Of course there is a lot to do and a lot to learn, but the excitement is high and I look forward to witnessing the launch of the first issue.

4. Which historical figure would you most like to have dinner with – and why?

I would like to have dinner with Rita Levi-­Montalcini. She was a great scientist in a time when it was very difficult to be a good (female) scientist. So I guess it would be very interesting chatting with her.

5. When was the last time you did an experiment in the lab – and what was it?

“La…” what? I’m joking. I’m a computational chemist, so for me a lab is an office with a machine where I can run simulations, and the last time I was in a lab was almost one month ago. I was simulating the melting of materials at extreme conditions. Last time I was in an actual lab was probably two years ago when I was performing some neutron scattering measurements.

6. If exiled on a desert island, what one book and one music album would you take with you?

I’d most likely bring with me something that will leave me with a positive message so I will take “City of Joy” by Dominique Lapierre. As my one only album I’d take with me “The Velvet Underground & Nico” by Velvet Underground.

7. Which chemist would you like to see interviewed on Reactions – and why?

I would suggest Dr. Chiara Gattinoni. She is a computational scientist and a chemist “by adoption.” I believe her answers to these questions will be interesting to read.

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