Maurizio was born on
February 15, 1979, in Milan, Italy. His interest in science dates
back to his years in high school where he excelled in physics,
chemistry, and mathematics. An everlasting passion for airplanes and
spacecraft has persisted all his life, together with a keen interest
in physics. It was difficult to choose which passion to follow at
university: physics or aerospace engineering. Eventually he pursue a
career in aerospace engineering.
Aerospace
engineering was a good choice, as his average exam marks show (28/30,
GPA A-). In particular he had an interest in power systems;
Turbomachinery and space propulsion was the subject in which
he excelled. The dissertation work was focused on a mathematical
combustion model for a novel solid propellant formulation. The work
was carried out at the SPLab (Space Propulsion Laboratory) where he
conducted an experimental campaign to measure the burning rate of the
novel solid propellant. The campaign validated his numerical
combustion model and he got the highest degree mark at Politecnico di
Milano: 100/100.
After
a brief experience as computer technician consultant, he decided that
the research is what he is aiming for. Therefore, he choose to start
a PhD at Cranfield. The project, in collaboration with BAE Systems,
is involved with the design of a very high speed marine vehicle with
low level flight capabilities. Since its dynamics is hybrid between a
planing craft and Wing In Ground effect vehicle (WIGe), this is a new
field of research. Maurizio decided to take on the challenge of
studying this new kind of dynamics.
After
the Ph. D., he would like to work in the area of research and
development for a major aerospace or naval company, woking closely with academic institutions. He believes he
can make the greatest contribution, utilizing his theoretical
background and creativity as a scientist.