Maria Valentina Clavijo Mesa
PhD thesis title: Resilience Assessment of Critical Infrastructures exposed to Climate Change
Academic Tutor: Francesco Di Maio
Academic Supervisor: Enrico Zio
Affiliate external company or research group: ENI
PhD cycle: 38° (see all student profiles of the same cycle > LINK)
BSc: Industrial Engineering, Universidad de Antioquia
MSc: Naval Architecture and Ocean Engineering, University of Sao Paulo
Research period at Institute for Risk and Reliability Leibniz University, Hannover (Sep.-Nov. ‘24) to study uncertainty quantification and propagation when limited and imprecise data are available
Excellent presentation at the 2023 7th International Conference on System Reliability and Safety (ICSRS 2023)
Thesis abstract
My PhD thesis focuses on the resilience of critical infrastructures (CIs) exposed to climate change. CIs such as electricity, oil, gas, transport, and water networks are essential for societal well-being. However, population growth and climate change challenge their resilience by increasing demand and vulnerability to extreme weather events. This research models cascading failures and dynamic disruptions in interconnected CIs. A hybrid approach addresses strategic and operational needs, integrating climate change data and uncertainties. The goal is to develop an optimizer offering flexible, balanced solutions to aid decision-makers in enhancing CI resilience.
My PhD programme is founded by PNRR (Piano Nazionale di Ripresa e Resilienza) in Italy. This plan supports recovery and enhances economic resilience. In line with the REPowerEU Plan, the project focuses on energy efficiency and sustainable solutions through advanced research.
Personal interest in my research theme
I am deeply interested in how critical infrastructures (CIs) support modern society. I am focused on finding practical solutions to improve these systems and, in turn, our quality of life. Keeping CIs resilient against climate change and urban growth is a major challenge. I am especially interested in understanding uncertainties and using advanced methods to model how failures in one area can lead to problems in others. In our connected world, disruptions can cause widespread issues. My goal is to develop strategies that strengthen these essential systems for the benefit of society.
