If you had asked me at sixteen what I wanted to be when I grew up, I probably would have said: “a writer.” I loved reading, I would lose myself in novels, and science, to me, belonged to a different universe. One I watched from afar, with a mix of curiosity and fear. There weren’t many women scientists in the textbooks, and I didn’t know any “Daniela” in a white lab coat.

And yet, here I am: Professor of Clinical Pathology, head of the Unit of Laboratory Oncology Diagnostics at Federico II, researcher, lecturer, and—yes—still a woman who loves books. Only now, I also read scientific articles and write more papers than short stories.

My journey hasn’t been one of straight lines. At first, getting a degree was more of a challenge than a calling. The early years were incredibly tough: endless lectures, difficult exams, and the constant feeling that I had to prove I was “enough.”
Enough competent, enough strong, enough “technical” for a world that often seemed to operate solely on male standards.

I had no female role models. But I had a tenacious instinct. And a deep belief: science isn’t just numbers or protocols. It’s also empathy, intuition, and attention to detail. It’s about listening to people, not just data. And on this ground, I finally began to flourish.

I discovered the clinical potential of cancer biomarkers. That’s when I realized science isn’t just math—it’s humanity. From that moment on, I never stopped: I’ve published over 150 scientific papers, gathered thousands of citations in international publications, and received awards that still surprise and honour me to this day. Every recognition feels like a gentle touch on the shoulder of that girl who once didn’t feel “good enough.”

But my restless soul was seeking more. It sought movement, impact, transformation. That’s how my commitment to innovation was born. I founded two university spin-offs, Elicadea and Robosan, which conduct pioneering research in advanced diagnostics and laboratory medicine automation. These are initiatives where science steps outside the academic halls and becomes real solutions for real people.

These projects embody everything: vision, risk, passion, and collaboration with young researchers who remind me every day why I chose this path.

In 2019, I also had the privilege of being selected by the U.S. Consulate in Naples to participate in the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP), the most prestigious professional exchange program in the U.S.—a unique experience where I got to connect with innovators and leaders from all over the world. It was one of those moments that makes you say: “Okay, I’m doing it. And I can do even more.”

And then there’s my commitment to women. Upon returning from the IVLP, I launched in Italy—in collaboration with the U.S. Department of State—the Academy for Women Entrepreneurs program, aimed at providing women with entrepreneurial ideas the knowledge, resources, and network to launch or scale successful ventures.

I work to create spaces where women can express themselves, grow, and feel legitimized in building their own path—even when it’s uncomfortable, unconventional, off the beaten track. Because I know what it’s like to be the only woman in a technical meeting, to feel judged more for the tone of your voice than the content of your ideas. But I also know how powerful sisterhood can be.
Women lifting each other up can truly make this world a better place.

Today, when I walk into the lab or step into a classroom, I don’t just bring my titles, my papers, my patents. I bring all my versions of self: the insecure girl, the passionate scientist, the professor who wants to open doors—not close them.

And if there’s one thing I’ve learned, one thing I’d shout to every young woman stepping into science or innovation, it’s this: There is no single way to be a woman.
You can be creative, emotional, pragmatic, dreamy, rational, and deeply human—all at once. You don’t have to choose who to be. You can be it all.

My motto?
“You don’t have to fit the mold. You can create a new one.”

And if I’m here today, it’s also because I met women and men who believed in me. Now, my mission is to do the same for others. Because truly, we rise by lifting each other.

Daniela Terracciano, Professor of Clinical Pathology and Researcher – University of Naples Federico II