Aida Padial (Granada, 1988) holds a degree in Business Administration and Foreign Trade. She is part of the Programme Management Office, within the Communications area. One of her main responsibilities is to coordinate and support the organization of conferences, workshops, and meetings that are an essential part of IFMIF-DONES’s institutional presence. These events require meticulous planning and constant attention to detail. “Each meeting, no matter how simple it may seem, represents the image of the project to the scientific, technical, and institutional community, so I like to take special care with every aspect,” says Aida Padial.

QUESTION (Q): A project as ambitious as IFMIF-DONES requires a wide range of professional profiles. You are one of the most cross-functional team members. Is it easy to align with such different professionals?

ANSWER (A): Yes, although it’s not always easy, it’s one of the most enriching parts of my work. I’m in constant contact with a wide variety of profiles: scientists, engineers, administrative staff, international visitors… Each has its own pace, priorities, and working styles, and my job is to adapt to all of them to ensure effective coordination. For me, flexibility is essential to do my work well.

– Q: Surely, no two days are the same.

– A: None at all! Since this is an international project, we work with people from all over the world, each with different needs, rhythms, and working methods. This makes each day bring new challenges and other dynamics. One day, I might be organizing a conference in Granada, the next in Croatia, and the next, welcoming new team members. That variety is both demanding and highly stimulating. It keeps me on my toes.

– Q: A young, highly qualified and constantly growing team. What is it like from the inside to experience this continuous growth in human resources?

– A: A young, highly qualified and constantly growing team. What is it like from the inside to experience this continuous growth in human resources?

It’s very energizing. I’ve been with IFMIF-DONES from the beginning when there were barely five of us. Today, we are more than fifty, and I’ve had the opportunity to watch the project grow, solidify, and impressively gain momentum.

From the Welcome Centre, I strive to ensure that everyone who joins feels welcome and supported from the very beginning. Watching the team become increasingly diverse, qualified, and committed and seeing how it continues to take shape is deeply fulfilling. Being part of that process from the start is, without a doubt, one of the most rewarding aspects of my job.

– Q: What three key pieces of advice do you give to new team members?

– A: First of all, don’t be afraid to ask questions, we’re all constantly learning here. We’re a team that’s always willing to help, and you’ll always find the support you need from your colleagues.
Secondly, be eager to learn. IFMIF-DONES is a constantly evolving environment, full of opportunities to grow, take part in activities, and take on new challenges. The attitude you bring makes all the difference.
And third, enjoy the journey. There will be many challenges and setbacks, as in any major project, but this one is truly exciting. Embrace it with enthusiasm and enjoy the experience.

– Q: The IFMIF-DONES España Consortium organizes events regularly. What impression does Granada leave on the scientists and researchers attending these meetings?

– A: Much of my work involves organizing events like these, and attendees consistently leave with a great impression.

We receive constant positive feedback—not only about the events themselves but also about the city. Granada leaves a mark. Not only because of its beauty and history but also thanks to the hospitality of its people and the high level of organization we offer at IFMIF-DONES.

Many participants congratulate us on how well we handle the details and the professional yet friendly atmosphere they find here. It’s a source of pride that the project also serves as a showcase for the best of our city.

– Q: Those who work with you often highlight your constant empathy. Is that the key to building strong institutional relationships?

– A: Absolutely. In my daily work, empathy is essential—to understand what each person needs, to solve unexpected issues, and to coordinate diverse teams. I believe it’s one of the qualities most appreciated by those who work with me, and it’s a solid foundation for building lasting and trustworthy relationships.

– Q: You’re one of the founders and main driving forces behind the Women in DONES (WiD)collective. What is your assessment of the WiD movement, and what activities are planned next?

– A: The outcome has been very positive. WiD has been warmly received and has helped raise the visibility of women within the project while also creating spaces for support and growth.

We’ve organized both internal and external activities and are continuing to develop new initiatives. Our next step is to launch a series of informal meetups to share experiences and foster networking among women in scientific and technical fields.