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Cinzia Leone

Italian Institute of Technology Italy

Cinzia Leone is a researcher at the Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia (IIT) in Italy, specialising in social impact, innovation, and equality, diversity, and inclusion (EDI). She holds a PhD in Sociology from UNED, Madrid, Spain, and a Master’s degree from the University of Genoa, Italy. Leone is a highly successful project designer and writer, having secured over €23 million in research funding between 2016 and 2022. She has played a pivotal role in numerous international research initiatives. Her research often adopts a holistic, interdisciplinary approach, bridging sociology and the STEM domain. Beyond her research, Leone has been an expert evaluator for the European Commission since 2013. She is an active member of international research groups, including two Jean Monnet Chairs and UNESCO Chairs. Her academic output includes editing or authoring books and numerous publications focused on gender, disability, diversity, equality, and inclusion. Additionally, she teaches PhD students, serves on several international scientific committees, and contributes as a peer reviewer for various scientific journals.

2books edited

4chapters authored

Latest work with IntechOpen by Cinzia Leone

This book brings together a range of perspectives to examine the evolving landscape of diversity, equality, and inclusion (DEI) in modern workplaces. Through interdisciplinary approaches and real-life case studies, it bridges the gap between theoretical frameworks and actionable practices, offering new insights into how organisations can foster a truly inclusive environment. Covering topics such as the expectations of younger generations in the workplace, inclusive leadership, unconscious bias, and cross-cultural challenges in globalized work environments, this book highlights innovative research and practical tools to promote and implement DEI. By integrating different disciplines and perspectives, the authors provide a comprehensive overview of how DEI can transform, influence, and underpin organisational cultures and performance in modern societies.

Perspectives on Diversity, Equality and Inclusion in the Workplace

Perspectives on Diversity, Equality and Inclusion in the Workplace

Edited by Cinzia Leone

Books edited

Career Development

Career Development

Edited by Cinzia Leone

Chapters authored

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion – A MOOC for Academic Purposes

By Rita Bencivenga, Cinzia Leone and Anna Siri

Since its fifth framework programme (1998–2002), the European Union has promoted gender equality and equal opportunities in the higher education sector and science and technological development. In its current framework programme for research and innovation, Horizon Europe (2021–2027), the EU requires scientists to systematically integrate the concepts of sex, gender and intersectionality into their research paths and to promote equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) in their working environments. However, for historical reasons, following the EU requirements is challenging, particularly for scientists in STEM disciplines. The University of Genoa is planning a MOOC suited to a large research institution audience to address this problem. The MOOC’s targets are researchers, scholars, administrative personnel and students interested in advancing EDI practices in the scientific fields. It enables them to understand the basic principles underlying the gender mainstreaming adopted by the EU and integrate methods and strategies related to sex, gender and intersectionality to progress towards an EDI-sensitive institution. Supported by a learner-centred instructional strategy, this chapter explores the choices related to EDI-sensitive methods and strategies adopted to develop and implement an online education path. Theoretical and practical implications are also discussed.

Part of the book: MOOC (Massive Open Online Courses)

Navigating Career Development in the Private Sector: Evolving Perspectives in Contemporary Societies

By Cinzia Leone

This chapter examines the institutionalisation of gender equality, diversity and inclusion (GEDI) policies in private sector companies, particularly in small and medium-sized enterprises in Europe, with a focus on Italy. Despite formal measures to promote GEDI, persistent biases and structural inequalities continue to limit women’s participation in the labour market. Using an intersectional approach, this chapter examines how organisational, economic, cultural and social factors interact to influence gender inequalities in employment. It emphasises the need for interdisciplinary research, data-driven policy interventions and intersectoral and corporate strategies that go beyond regulatory compliance to promote an inclusive work environment. Furthermore, the study addresses the role of artificial intelligence in measuring and improving GEDI outcomes but also recognises its current limitations. The chapter argues for a paradigm shift that incorporates GEDI into work and organisational life, combining qualitative insights with macroeconomic data, resulting in a holistic model that prioritises equality, diversity and inclusion and sustainability in workforce development.

Part of the book: Career Development

Introductory Chapter: The Future of Work – Redefining Careers in a Changing World

By Cinzia Leone

Part of the book: Career Development

Related collaborators

Sung-Wan Kim

Korea Nazarene University , Korea, South

Ebba Ossiannilsson

Ossiannilsson Quality In Open Online Learning Consultancy

David Cobham

University of Lincoln , United Kingdom

Ramashego Shila Mphahlele

University of South Africa , South Africa

Nor Hafiza Haron

Vollan Ochieng

African Population and Health Research Center , Kenya

Kwamena Appiah-Kubi

University of Lincoln , United Kingdom

Yusof Hafidzan

Maurice Mutisya

African Population and Health Research Center , Kenya

Caroline Thiong'O

African Population and Health Research Center , Kenya