Early Researcher Spotlight: Meet Paraskevi Tsoumani.

As we seek solutions to adapt and protect vital systems like water, energy, and transportation, researchers like Paraskevi Tsoumani are at the forefront of developing new ways to assess risks and build resilience. As a PhD candidate in the Research Unit of Soil Dynamics and Geotechnical Earthquake Engineering (SDGEE) at Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (AUTH), Paraskevi plays a key role in the Multi-hazard Infrastructure Risk Assessment for Climate Adaptation (MIRACA) project, an innovative initiative aimed at strengthening Europe’s infrastructure against climate change impacts.

We spoke with Paraskevi to learn more about her academic journey, her contributions to MIRACA, and what excites her about building resilience in critical infrastructure systems.

---

From seismic fragility to multi-hazard resilience.

Paraskevi’s academic path into infrastructure resilience began with her integrated master’s degree in Hydraulics and Environmental Engineering. After graduating with honors, she gained valuable experience working in a technical office for two years before pursuing an MSc in Resilient Design of Technical Works against Earthquakes and other Natural Hazards.

“My master’s research focused on the seismic fragility of steel structures, particularly examining soil-structure interaction and site amplification effects,” Paraskevi explains. “This work inspired me to delve deeper into the complex challenges of infrastructure resilience, particularly as they relate to climate change.”

Currently, as a PhD candidate, Paraskevi has broadened her research to include multi-hazard infrastructure risk assessment. She notes that joining MIRACA has been an opportunity to apply her expertise to pressing real-world challenges. “The project allows me to contribute to developing harmonized databases and risk assessment tools that can guide Europe’s infrastructure adaptation to climate risks,” she says.

Infrastructure resilience matters: A journey into MIRACA.

Paraskevi’s role in MIRACA focuses on improving the resilience of Europe’s critical infrastructure against climate-related hazards. This includes reviewing existing frameworks, addressing data gaps in CI asset vulnerability, and conducting case studies to validate new methodologies. “MIRACA provides a platform to bridge the gap between science and practice,” she says. “I’m particularly excited about the multidisciplinary collaboration, as it enables us to tackle infrastructure challenges from diverse perspectives.”

The MIRACA toolkit, which includes data-driven decision-support systems and adaptation strategies, aligns with Paraskevi’s vision of creating practical, actionable solutions for public authorities and infrastructure managers.

Her research emphasizes the need to consider complex interdependencies within infrastructure systems. “Critical infrastructure assets are interconnected, and their vulnerabilities can lead to cascading failures,” she explains. “By addressing these multi-hazard risks, we can create solutions that are both resilient and sustainable.”

This holistic approach is central to MIRACA’s mission. By incorporating socio-economic, technical, and environmental factors, Paraskevi aims to ensure that adaptation strategies are comprehensive and effective in the long term.

Driving meaningful change.

When asked about her hopes for the impact of her work, Paraskevi is optimistic: “I aim to create tools and resources that empower decision-makers to enhance infrastructure resilience. My goal is to support the development of systems that not only withstand climate-related hazards but also protect communities and economies.”

Paraskevi is also passionate about addressing uncertainties in infrastructure planning. “I envision a future where adaptation strategies are rigorously tested, implemented, and proven effective in real-world scenarios.”

Outside of academia, Paraskevi enjoys activities that keep her grounded. “I love listening to music, it brightens my day and playing the guitar helps me relax and have fun,” she says. “Walking and running are my go-to activities for staying active and clearing my mind.”

Keep up with Paraskevi’s work.

Learn more about Paraskevi Tsoumani’s work and connect with her via LinkedIn: Paraskevi Tsoumani.
Explore her research contributions at SDGEE AUTH Website.

---

About MIRACA:

Led by a consortium of top researchers, engineers, and climate specialists, the Multi-hazard Infrastructure Risk Assessment for Climate Adaptation (MIRACA) project is strengthening Europe’s critical infrastructure against the impacts of climate change. MIRACA equips public authorities with an innovative decision-support toolkit—featuring technical guidance, a resilience-testing workbench, and an interactive online viewer—to assess risks, explore adaptation strategies, and close data gaps. With open-access models and practical insights from five diverse European use cases, MIRACA empowers communities to implement cost-effective, resilient infrastructure solutions across the continent.