To give you a better idea of how we work, in every newsletter we’ll introduce you to one of our team members who will share what their background is, what they’re working on and why algorithmic transparency matters to them! 

This month you can hear from Cecilia Panigutti who has been working at the European Commission since 2022, joining directly after completing her PhD in Data Science from Scuola Normale Superiore, where her research focus was on eXplainable AI.

When considering career options following your PhD, what drew you to the Commission’s work on algorithmic transparency and AI? 

I saw an opportunity to contribute to meaningful initiatives that go beyond purely technical advancements. The Commission’s work on the societal implications of AI resonated with my personal values and professional goals. My work at ECAT allows me to further leverage the expertise I acquired during my doctoral research and apply it to projects that positively impact society.

What are you working on right now? 

Currently, I am focused on supporting the enforcement of the Digital Services Act (DSA), specifically focusing on aspects related to algorithms where my expertise proves most valuable. The work is especially exciting as it entails addressing new and unique challenges that requires in-depth research to understand and solve.

Can you share one achievement from your career so far that you’re proud of?

It is difficult to pick just one thing. I am very proud of the paper we wrote in collaboration with many other colleagues on the role of eXplainable AI in the context of the AI Act. I am also proud of all the work we did to support DG Connect during the pre-compliance stress tests conducted this summer to test VLOPs readiness to comply with the DSA.