Francesca Tambasco grew up in the United States in an Italian-American household. Eager to get ahead, she finished her secondary education early and moved to Italy.

She attended the Foundation Course in Science in Pisa, where she came out top of her class, earning a scholarship to attend the university. Not yet ready to settle, Francesca decided to continue her studies in Molecular and Cellular Biology in Torino. She then obtained an Erasmus+ grant to study one year abroad in Bordeaux, France. Upon graduation, Francesca was determined to enter a new field of study where she could combine innovative science with her passion for the cosmetic industry, and that is how she found EMOTION. She is very grateful to have been selected among such brilliant women and cannot wait to change the future of cosmetics alongside them. 

Three words: Ambitious – Adaptable – Compassionate

Medhashree Sengupta: commonly known by her peers as Misa, grew up in the City of Joy, Kolkata in West Bengal, India. From a very young age, she knew she wanted to be in the line of Cosmetics development and research.
So, with the EMOTION program in her mind since 2019, she graduated top of her class in her Bachelor’s and Master’s course from Calcutta University, one of the oldest modern universities in India in Human Physiology. She is excited to be a part of her cohort and is eager to learn more about cosmetics while representing her state on an international platform! 

Three words: Resilient – Admiration – Inspiration

Cristina Ajitimbay was born in Riobamba city, Ecuador in 2000, where her passion for plants and natural skincare first began. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Biochemistry and Pharmacy and conducted research on Peperomia galioides Kunth, developing a natural healing cream from this native plant. Through her experience with the Chankuap Foundation, Cristina explored the intersection of traditional knowledge and modern science in creating natural cosmetics and phytopharmaceuticals. She is now pursuing EMOTION, where she continues to expand her expertise in formulation, skin science, and sustainable innovation inspired by nature.

Three words: Optimistic – Persevering – Adventurous

Wajeeha Noor is a Biotechnology graduate from the University of Central Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan, with proud Kashmiri roots. She has been awarded the American Society for Microbiology (ASM) virtual fellowship and is currently an active member of the American Society of Clinical Pathology (ASCP). Her research journey focused on nanoparticle based drug design, targeting antibiotic-resistant genes for cancer treatment. Her academic interests include bioinformatics, precision medicine, and pharmacophore based drug design. Moreover, her entrepreneurial skillset led to a professional journey in the skincare industry with Oriflame. Furthermore, she has also worked as a research associate and scientific writer globally. These experiences sparked her passion for merging scientific research with skin health. She  sees herself as a passionate and creative individual. In EMOTION, She aspires to make significant contributions to dermatological research, and medical devices through advanced innovative solutions. With a blend of technical and soft skills, she is confident that this multidisciplinary program will not only allow her to build a strong international network but also turn her vision for skincare technologies into reality. Outside of her professional work, she enjoys exploring cultural diversities, making meaningful connections, and tasting new food.

Three words: Innovative – Reliable – Visionary

Tasneem Jahan was born and brought up in Chittagong, Bangladesh, a nation celebrated for its vibrant culture and its significant role as a leader in textiles. She completed her Bachelor of Pharmacy from the International Islamic University Chittagong. Her undergraduate research on the pharmacology of a native medicinal plant, Vitis elongata ignited her focus on health This rigorous scientific work, combined with the hands-on dermal insight gained through her established business as a professional Henna Artist, provided the unique interdisciplinary foundation that helped her to secure the prestigious Erasmus Mundus Scholarship for the EMOTION master’s program. Her goal is to lead R&D within the global cosmetics and pharmaceutical sector, using her perspective to represent Bangladesh on international platforms.

Three words: Synergistic – Visionary – Meticulous.

Elionora Cruces was born in Peru. She earned her degree in Biotechnology Engineering and later a Master’s in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, expanding her expertise in bioactive compounds. Her professional path led her to work on skincare formulations enriched with probiotics and ingredients derived from microorganisms. Alongside Elionora has also been a professor, sharing her passion for biotechnology and inspiring future scientists to explore the beauty of life sciences.

Earlier in her career, she focused on microalgae, particularly the extraction and formulation of astaxanthin, an antioxidant now used in cosmetics. For Elionora, EMOTION represents the ideal bridge between scientific research, education, and cosmetic innovation, a chance to transform knowledge into sustainable solutions for healthier skin.

Three words: Innovative – Diligent – Kind

Cindy Laurence was born in Medan, Indonesia, in 2002. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Pharmacy from Universitas Gadjah Mada in 2024 and became a licensed pharmacist in 2025. During her studies, she took an internship in the R&D department, where she worked on her first project formulating a hair tonic using essential oils. This sparked her interest in formulation science, leading her to further research on Pelargonium graveolens oil, optimizing a microemulsion-based formula, and testing its stability and hair-growth activity through in vivo studies. Through EMOTION, she hopes to develop her skills and gain broader international exposure. Cindy loves traveling, nature, and photography.

Three words: Cheerful – Adaptable – Curious

Laura Scherzer Felez was born in Munich and lived in Greece for four years before moving to Spain, where she earned her Pharmacy degree at the University of Santiago de Compostela. She spent a year on Erasmus in Slovenia, which helped her develop adaptability and a broader perspective on science and health. After graduating, she worked for two years in a pharmacy, focusing on magistral formulations, patient care, and waste management, which sparked her interest in cosmetic R&D. Parallel to her work, she completed a Master’s in Clinical Analysis. She hopes that EMOTION will prepare her to become a professional in cosmetic R&D, gaining expertise in regulatory science and sustainability to develop innovative and responsible products.

Three words: Resourceful – Motivated – Open-minded

Aleyda Margarita Escobar Fernández, also known as Maggie, was born in Mexico, but also grew up in the USA and Switzerland. Her curiosity and desire to understand and heal her own skin issues led her to discover research and science from a very young age. This passion for innovation led her to pursue a Bachelor’s in Chemistry and Nanotechnology, aiming to develop novel and accessible solutions for others. With a Master’s in Biotechnology and expertise in drug delivery and nanomedicine. Maggie aims to combine scientific rigor with creativity to develop technologies that bridge skin health and biotechnological innovation. Since 2020, she has shared her love for science through social media, also offering guidance for the professional growth of young people across Latin The EMOTION master represents the next step in connecting her scientific background with her passion for skin health.

Three words: Creative – Curious – Caring

Lara Ribeiro is a Brazilian Chemical Engineer passionate about innovation in cosmetics and dermatological sciences. She has conducted research in Poland and Austria, working on the synthesis of novel pharmaceutical compounds and sustainable product development. Her international experiences have strengthened her adaptability and creativity, shaping her into a dynamic professional dedicated to merging science and sustainability. Currently pursuing the EMOTION Master’s program in Skin Health and Care, Lara aims to become an R&D specialist and entrepreneur who leads transformative innovations in beauty, health, and wellness, redefining cosmetics as tools for empowerment and authentic self-expression.

Three words: Innovative – Adaptable – Visionary

Angely Ramírez is a Dominican medical doctor with a strong and growing interest in dermatology, oncology, and biomedical research. During her medical studies, she focused on cancer research, completing her thesis at the Instituto de Oncología Dr. Heriberto Pieter, a leading oncology center in the Dominican Republic. After earning her degree, she worked as a general practitioner while continuing her involvement at the same institute, gaining valuable experience in clinical oncology and patient care. Driven by a desire to expand her research expertise and contribute to scientific innovation, she joined the EMOTION Master’s program, which she views as a perfect intersection of her interests in medicine, research, and global collaboration. Her long-term goal is to advance research and development in the field of dermatology, with a particular focus on the prevention and treatment of skin cancer.

Three words: Broad-minded – Inquisitive – Steadfast

Andrea Herrera was born in Mexico and has always been motivated by the curiosity about how science can enhance people’s lives. This led her to earn a Bachelor’s degree in Biochemical Engineering, building a strong foundation in chemistry.

She began her career as a formulation scientist in the pharmaceutical industry, an experience that solidified her appreciation for balancing innovation, quality, formulation and accessibility.

Her growing interest in dermocosmetics inspired her to join the EMOTION Master’s program, where she seeks to deepen her knowledge of skin science and explore sustainable, human-centered innovation. Andrea aspires to contribute in the development of products that merge efficacy, safety, and empathy, thereby bringing scientific progress closer to everyday well-being.

Three words: Insightful – Committed – Genuine

Ayesha Akram, Doctor of Pharmacy with a Pharm.D. from Hamdard University, earned with distinction, alongside advanced training in Pharmacology from Harvard Medical School. Awarded two of the world’s most competitive scholarships in the same year, she has co-authored two textbooks on Biotechnology, showcasing expertise in pharmacology, biotechnology, and medicine.Her clinical experience includes internships at leading healthcare institutions, complemented by award-winning research on medication use during pregnancy. Now, her research focus has evolved toward cutting-edge pharmaceutical science, her ideas center on developing hydrogels and ethosomes as innovative nano-drug delivery systems for enhanced dermal therapeutics. She is driven to bridge her advanced knowledge in drug delivery and scholarly publishing with the advanced concepts in dermatology, skin anatomy, and care innovation offered by the EMOTION program, positioning herself to drive impactful solutions in the future of skin health.

   Three words: Disciplined – Strategic – Meritorious

Alba del Carmen Bonete Lax was born in Elda, a small city on the Mediterranean coast of Spain, in 2002. She studied Biotechnology at the University Miguel Hernández of Elche, graduating top of her class. During her studies, she worked as a research intern at the Institute of Bioengineering, focusing on molecular analysis and genetic editing of model plants, and later in microbiological quality control within the food industry. She also spent a semester abroad in Wroclaw, Poland, where she made lasting international friends and strengthened her passion for exploring the world and learning from different cultures.  After presenting her thesis on the obtention of quadruple mutant plants, she joined a cosmetic laboratory, where she participated in formulation and production processes and later moved to Barcelona to work in Master Data Management in DSM-Firmenich, the world’s leading company in beauty and cosmetic ingredients. She is deeply grateful for the opportunity to broaden her understanding of cosmetics from scientific, regulatory, and business perspectives, and to collaborate daily with a diverse team of brilliant women scientists. She looks forward to what she believes will be one of the greatest adventures of her life.

Three words: Resilient – Ambitious – Open-minded

Aneesha Perera grew up in Homagama, a serene suburb near Colombo, Sri Lanka. She obtained her Bachelor’s degree in Biotechnology from the University of Sri Jayewardenepura, where she developed a strong interest in dermatology and sustainable cosmetics. Inspired by Sri Lanka’s rich biodiversity, Aneesha is particularly interested in exploring how locally sourced ingredients can be utilized for sustainable and innovative cosmetic solutions. She is eager to study advanced dermatological science through the EMOTION master’s program, combining her knowledge of biology and biotechnology with insights into the cosmetic industry to develop safe, effective, and environmentally responsible skincare products. Through this program, she looks forward to collaborating with international peers and experts, broadening her understanding of global skincare practices while contributing her perspective on natural and sustainable approaches.

Three words: Resourceful – Analytical – Innovative

Elif Yıldız Küçüktepe, born in Istanbul, Türkiye in 2000, graduated with high honors from Yıldız Technical University, Department of Bioengineering (English), ranking first in her class. Throughout her studies, she pursued excellence by engaging in diverse internships across pharmaceutical production, molecular biology, analytical chemistry, genetic engineering, pathology, and She also conducted her own tissue engineering research project, funded by TÜBİTAK (The Scientific and Technological Research Council of Türkiye). After graduation, she worked as a quality engineer, gaining valuable insight into the regulatory aspects of the medical device sector. During her studies, she found herself drawn to skincare and smart drug delivery strategies. Guided by her passion for skin health and her ambition to become an impactful scientist, she found her path aligned with the EMOTION program. Elif believes that EMOTION will not only broaden her scientific knowledge but also provide the global perspective and interdisciplinary mindset needed to become a leading innovator in the field of skincare, empowering individuals to feel confident in their own skin.

Three words: Passionate – Ambitious – Curious

Alena Naumova was born in Moscow, Russia, in 2002. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Materials Chemistry, Physics and Mechanics from Russia’s leading university, Lomonosov Moscow State University. During her studies, she gained research experience focusing on transdermal drug delivery for melanoma treatment, and actively participated in conferences and workshops. Alena’s growing passion for dermatology and skincare products development has driven her to apply for the EMOTION program. She believes that the opportunity to gain interdisciplinary knowledge in an international environment is a key to both personal and professional growth. Her goal is to contribute to the formulation of innovative skincare products applying new skills and knowledge acquired during EMOTION to advance as a qualified professional.

Three words: Responsible – Determined – Empathetic

Tamarachiara Kuntjoro is a general practitioner from Atma Jaya Catholic University of Indonesia. Her experience with atopic dermatitis ignited a deep passion for dermatology, immunology, and clinical research. She pursued certification as a Clinical Research Coordinator from Northwestern University and completed Good Clinical Practice (GCP) training. After graduating, she worked at dermatology aesthetic clinics in Indonesia, focusing on diagnosis, skincare, injectables, and dermatologic devices, while also shadowing dermatology experts in both Indonesia and the USA. She then joined the Oxford University Clinical Research Unit (OUCRU) as a clinical trial assistant for a Phase III immunology study. She was selected as a research fellow in a competitive industry program by HanAll Biopharma and Daewoong Pharmaceutical, earning DIA certification. Now, as an EMOTION Erasmus Mundus scholar, she is advancing her passion toward innovation in skin health and clinical research.

Three words: Passionate – Curious – Meticulous

Abithaa Kaliyannan Rajavel was born and raised in Tamil Nadu, India, a place known for its rich traditions and vibrant culture. Inspired by Thiruvalluvar’s words “Though fate-divine should make your labour vain; Effort its labour’s sure reward will ” This has helped her to stay determined through every stage of life. She earned her bachelor’s in biotechnology with distinction and first-class honours in 2023, co-authoring two publications and contributing to patent applications. Her curiosity about applying theoretical knowledge in real-world settings led her to work in the Quality Control department of a vaccine manufacturing facility, making her a strong candidate for the EMOTION program.

Primarily, it is her final-year research on media optimization and cyanobacteria-based sunscreen development that kept her intrigued about delving further into the intersection of biotechnology and cosmeceutical science. She is looking forward to expanding her knowledge of incorporating biotechnology techniques to enhance

sustainable approaches in skin health.

Three words: Adaptable – Resilient – Constructive

Eleni Liapi is an enthusiastic scholar from Greece, transforming a lifetime of adaptation into scientific innovation. Her journey, from a nomadic childhood to the pursuit of developing sustainable skincare, embodies her deep love for science and her holistic approach to health. She holds a degree in Biochemistry and Biotechnology, with a diploma project focused on applying machine learning and data science to gut microbiome analysis for cancer prediction. She has professional experience in clinical research, diagnostics, and biotechnology. She has also served as a local Project Manager for the Erasmus Student Network, where, among other achievements, she secured the “SIEM Micro Grant for an Impactful Activity” and a Network Award for her section. Through the EMOTION program, she aspires to advance next-generation skin science that honors the profound connection between the human body and the cosmos. She is pursuing a meaningful evolution by blending her interdisciplinary understanding of science with conscience, and by facilitating projects that foster intercultural collaboration.

Three words: Quality – Adaptability – Philotimo

Magdalena Ivic is a medical doctor from Croatia who discovered her passion for dermatology while practicing in Thailand, where her curiosity for skin and science naturally intertwined. Today, she brings that blend of medical insight and refined aesthetic sense to her writing and online presence. You can read her reflections on beauty across social media — and sometimes, in the pages of Vogue. Eager to expand her knowledge and explore the research side of skincare, she joined the EMOTION master’s program in Cosmetic Science.

Three words: Curious – Elegant – Visionary