New OpenAIRE Team Member Feature – Meet Egidio Pasquinetti

Dear OpenAIRE members, NOADS and partners,

We are pleased to announce yet another addition to the OpenAIRE team! Allow us to present to you, our new Technical Manager, Egidio Pasquinetti! Read on and learn more about the newest member the OpenAIRE team!

Getting to Know You

• Can you tell us a little about yourself and your background?

I hold a degree in Computer Engineering and have spent over 15 years building expertise in sales, business development and strategic consulting across multiple industries, including retail technology, market research, financial services, blockchain and AI. I've successfully led enterprise sales teams, secured long-term contracts and managed complex, international projects throughout the EMEA region. I'm also certified as a Lean Six Sigma Black Belt, emphasizing continuous improvement and operational efficiency.

• How does your previous experience align with OpenAIRE's mission and goals?

My professional background in driving market growth, adopting strategic technologies, optimizing business processes and effectively managing and aligning stakeholder expectations closely aligns with OpenAIRE's mission of advancing Open Science and developing robust research infrastructure.

• What is a favourite quote from a film/ book or any other medium that you would like to share with us that tells something about yourself?

"Do or do not, there is no try." — Yoda, Star Wars
This quote encapsulates my commitment to action and perseverance—I believe in approaching goals with determination and purpose.

Role & Responsibilities

• What inspired you to join OpenAIRE?

OpenAIRE's vision of an open and collaborative research environment was deeply inspiring to me. The chance to participate actively in supporting the global research community and contribute to initiatives that promote transparency, accessibility and collaboration was particularly appealing, alongside working with a dedicated and skilled team.

• What will your role at OpenAIRE involve?

My role will involve technical management and coordination of OpenAIRE's activities, particularly focusing on EOSC projects like EOSC Beyond and EOSC EU Node. I'll be working closely with various stakeholders - researchers, technical teams and institutions - to streamline operations, enhance interoperability and deliver real value through our services and collaborations.

• What are you most excited about in your new position?

I'm excited by the opportunity to directly impact Open Science by enhancing the usability and scalability of research infrastructure. Collaborating closely with the research community to deliver practical and innovative solutions is especially motivating.

• How do you see your contributions supporting OpenAIRE's growth and impact?

With my experience in operational excellence and market strategy, I intend to optimize OpenAIRE's technical processes, elevate service delivery, identify strategic growth opportunities and enhance OpenAIRE's adoption within the broader research community.

Perspectives on Open Science

• What does Open Science mean to you? Why do you think Open Science is important for the future of research?

To me, Open Science represents the transparent, accessible and collaborative sharing of knowledge. I strongly believe it is fundamental for accelerating innovation, enhancing transparency and enabling faster, broader scientific advancements that benefit society as a whole.

• Are there any particular Open Science trends or challenges that interest you?

I find the application of AI and machine learning to enhance data discovery, management and usability in Open Science contexts extremely promising.

Closing Notes

• As a closing note, what would you say is the one thing that you'd like people to know about you as you step into this role?

I am driven by a strong commitment to creating positive, impactful change through practical, collaborative approaches—and I've been told my sense of humor isn't too bad either! I value open, straightforward communication and look forward to working closely (and occasionally sharing a laugh) with everyone to achieve OpenAIRE's goals.

Thank you again for your time Egidio and welcome to OpenAIRE!