We are CSCS: Annapaola Santarsiero

My focus 
I'm part of the team developing the in-house scientific knowledge graph, MarmotGraph. As a software engineer specializing in UI/UX design and front-end development, I focus on creating intuitive and accessible interfaces for exploring complex scientific data. My work bridges engineering and user experience, ensuring that researchers can effectively interact with advanced technologies.   

What working at CSCS means to me 
Throughout my career, I have been dedicated to supporting scientific research. Being part of CSCS is especially meaningful to me because it allows me to apply my expertise in a place where innovation and discovery thrive. I’m proud to contribute to making complex tools and data accessible to researchers, knowing that my work helps advance science. Working alongside such talented colleagues in an environment that values learning and growth makes CSCS an inspiring and fulfilling place to be.   

What I like most about my work 
What I value most is the opportunity to work with exceptional colleagues and diverse stakeholders from various scientific disciplines. Each project brings new challenges and learning opportunities. I particularly enjoy the collaborative aspect of my role, where I can work closely with stakeholders to understand their needs and translate them into effective solutions. It's incredibly rewarding to see how the interfaces and tools I help design and develop enable researchers to advance their scientific work.   

What are the challenges I face 
One of the main challenges in my role is creating interfaces that are both powerful enough for complex scientific needs yet intuitive enough for researchers from various backgrounds to use effectively. We must constantly balance sophistication with usability, ensuring that our solutions don't create barriers to access. Additionally, keeping pace with evolving technologies and user expectations requires continuous learning and adaptation. Another challenge is effectively communicating between technical and non-technical stakeholders, ensuring that we maintain alignment between user needs, technical capabilities, and project goals.