Stefania Grotti has been appointed Executive Director of the Bicocca Foundation, the organization established earlier this year by the University of Milano-Bicocca with the aim of supporting the university in enhancing and promoting its advanced education, research, and technology transfer initiatives. The Foundation seeks to strengthen the connection between academia and industry. Grotti’s appointment was approved by the Foundation’s Board of Directors, following the recommendation of a selection committee that included the University’s Rector, Giovanna Iannantuoni. Grotti officially took office today, September 1, and will serve a three-year term.
“Among the outstanding candidates we received, Dr. Grotti stood out as a high-caliber professional with both national and international experience, and with proven expertise aligned with the mission, activities, and challenges of the newly established Bicocca Foundation,” said Giovanna Iannantuoni, Rector of the University of Milano-Bicocca. “I extend my warmest welcome and best wishes as she begins this important role.”
“It is a great honor to take on the role of Executive Director of the Bicocca Foundation,” said Grotti. “This position represents a natural continuation of my professional journey dedicated to advancing research and innovation. I will bring the experience I have gained in both national and international contexts to strengthen the Foundation’s role as a bridge between institutions and society—promoting research, innovation, advanced education, and public engagement—while creating tangible impact for the region’s development and new opportunities for the broader community. I am especially proud to be doing this work in Milan, my hometown, applying the skills I acquired abroad for the benefit of my country.”
About Stefania Grotti
With over 29 years of experience in research development and management, Stefania Grotti has held prominent roles at the Politecnico di Milano and, more recently, served as Director of Research and Innovation at Sorbonne University in Paris. She earned a law degree from the University of Bologna (“Alma Mater Studiorum”) and has built a career coordinating complex projects—particularly at the European level—while developing strong leadership, negotiation, and organizational management skills. Her career is marked by a consistent ability to foster collaboration between universities, institutions, and businesses, enhancing research and knowledge transfer.
