Elisa Chiapponi graduated from EURECOM in 2020 with a double degree from Politecnico di Torino and Télécom Paris, specializing in Security of Communication Systems. In 2023, she obtained her Ph.D. in Digital Security from Sorbonne Université. She worked on her Ph.D. thesis at EURECOM in collaboration with Amadeus. Today, she is a Senior Cybersecurity Researcher at Amadeus, based in Sophia Antipolis.
Her journey is a perfect example of how EURECOM equips students with hands-on experience, industry connections, and an international perspective, helping them shape successful and fulfilling careers.
Discovering her passion
During her studies at Politecnico di Torino, Elisa was exploring options for a double degree abroad. She wanted strong academic training, close links to industry, and a collaborative learning environment. EURECOM immediately stood out: small class sizes, courses taught directly by professors on cutting-edge research topics, and a stimulating environment closely connected to real-world challenges.
“Studying in an international environment, close to the sea and with many sunny days, contributed to an excellent quality of life during my studies,” she recalls.
Elisa followed the System Security curriculum, and her favorite course was Mobile Security. Through Capture-The-Flag (CTF) challenges, she explored Android security in a hands-on way, a fun and formative experience that sparked her long-term interest in cybersecurity research.
Her overall experience at EURECOM?
“Challenging, inspiring, and formative. EURECOM pushed me intellectually and helped me discover my passion for cybersecurity, which later led me to pursue a PhD. I also built strong international friendships that I still maintain today.”
From studies to first job
After graduating, Elisa joined Amadeus for a research internship, which led to her PhD sponsorship. Upon completing her doctorate, she became a full-time cybersecurity researcher.
She found this opportunity through the EURECOM Forum Entreprises, leaving her CV at the Amadeus booth and discussing her interests with the team. Months later, her future manager from the security team contacted her for an interview.
A day in the life of a Cybersecurity Researcher
Elisa’s work focuses on detecting and mitigating automated attacks (bots).
Her days are diverse and dynamic, including:
- Studying scientific papers and emerging attack techniques
- Analyzing real attack data
- Designing, implementing, and testing detection or mitigation methods
- Writing research papers and patents
- Presenting results at conferences
- Supervising other researchers and engineers
- Participating in internal innovation and European research projects
Main challenge: Cybersecurity is a constant arms race, staying one step ahead of attackers is demanding but intellectually stimulating.
Favorite part of her work: “It’s constantly evolving, intellectually challenging, and impactful. I know my work contributes to protecting real systems and users.”
Shaping a career with curiosity and impact
Elisa credits EURECOM for giving her the skills and mindset to thrive in cybersecurity: adaptability, analytical thinking, and collaboration in international teams. “EURECOM taught me how to face new challenges, manage multiple tasks in parallel, and remain flexible in complex and evolving environments, skills that are essential in cybersecurity research.” she says.
She also encourages future female students: “Cybersecurity is a stimulating, creative field. Diverse perspectives make security solutions stronger. Don’t self-censor, your perspective is valuable.”
Her advice to all students: stay curious, explore research projects, industry collaborations, and internships, and test what truly excites you. “Be curious and passionate, stay up to date in your field, and take advantage of as many research/industrial projects and internships as possible. They are invaluable to understand what you truly enjoy, what the academia/industry is actually looking for and where you want to specialize.”
We’re delighted to showcase the journey of Elisa Chiapponi, whose passion, curiosity, and dedication have led her from the classroom to a successful career in cybersecurity at Amadeus in Sophia Antipolis. Her story is a perfect example of how EURECOM equips students with the skills, experiences, and mindset to thrive in a challenging and dynamic world. We hope Elisa’s journey inspires our current and future students to explore, take on challenges, and shape their own paths.
