March 08, 2025 - by CSCS
Stephanie Frequente - HR Partner
On this Women's Day, my reflection is that balancing a successful career and family is possible from my personal point of view. My recommendation for more junior females who desire both a successful career and a rich family life is to look out for a flexible, family-friendly employer and the opportunity to work from home. ETH Zürich/CSCS is an exemplary employer, and I am grateful for the support I have received over the years. I am also extremely proud of all the childcare initiatives I have helped implement at CSCS in Lugano that support parents juggling daily life, for example, with a paid babysitter for their sick child or a paid summer camp.
Maria Grazia Giuffreda - Associate Director, Head of User Program and Roadmaps
Young women embarking on their careers thrive when they have strong mentors, build support networks, and confidently advocate for themselves in the workplace. By continuously developing skills and embracing resilience, they can successfully navigate career growth. I am proud to amplify the voices of women at CSCS and foster a more inclusive environment. Speaking up against biases plays a crucial role in driving long-term success and positive workplace change. One of the greatest opportunities for progress lies in raising awareness that biases, even unconscious ones, can impact workplace dynamics and inclusivity. At this stage in my career, I am deeply committed to not only proudly representing CSCS and contributing my work to the success of the centre but also to serving as a role model, mentoring, and actively engaging with young generations—both boys and girls—to challenge and reshape long-standing behaviours and mindsets.
Raluca Hodoroaba - Training and Community Engagement Officer
As a Training and Community Engagement Officer at CSCS, I am committed to creating opportunities for learning and growth through employee courses, career fairs, and scientific events for the HPC community. Fostering an inclusive workplace starts with valuing diverse voices, ensuring equal opportunities, and supporting each other’s success.
Lisette Van Der Maarel - Executive Assistant and Finance Officer
It is still challenging for women in the workplace on several fronts. I think the best thing we can do is to look out for each other and support each other whenever possible. We need to lean into our strengths rather than just try to fit in.
Michèle Woodtli - Research Projects Finance Officer
Unfortunately, I was not encouraged to pursue a career. My father always said I should do something “Richtiges”—meaning work with my hands. Of course, I was later able to catch up when I could make my own decisions, but it was harder. That's why I tried to encourage my daughter to take advantage of all the opportunities she has—to complete her Matura and study whatever she wants. Especially considering that we have the incredible opportunity to study nearly for free, this is a privilege we should make use of if possible. I was influenced by a mix of women with families who also continued learning, studying, and advancing in their careers. But I also think we need to be careful—we don’t always have to be superwomen.
