Technology Manager with the U.S. Department of Energy where he develops and executes research, development, demonstration, and commercialization programs for clean energy technologies. TEDx licensee and organizer. Holds a Ph.D. in Physics from University of Catania and is an alumnus of the Scuola Superiore di Catania.

Dr. Gioia Rau is an astrophysicist leader and expert in scientific leadership, strategy, and research. As Program Director at the NSF Division of Astronomical Sciences, she drives innovation in Stellar Astrophysics and at the intersection of AI applied to astrophysics, overseeing high-impact research portfolios. She leads multiple NASA mission concepts, shaping the future of space exploration. Dr. Rau fosters inclusive leadership supervising graduate students, advances strategic initiatives, and shares the wonders of the cosmos through impactful science outreach.