Monica Azzolini

Monica Azzolini is an Associate Professor in the History of Science at the Department of Philosophy and Communication, University of Bologna. She holds a PhD and MPhil from the University of Cambridge, and an MA from Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Milan. Her research focuses on early modern science, medicine, and environmental history, with a particular emphasis on Italy and transnational networks. She has taught at prestigious institutions including the University of Edinburgh, University of Washington, and University of New South Wales. Azzolini has held fellowships at I Tatti (Harvard), The Warburg Institute, and Princeton University’s Shelby Cullom Davis Center.

Her work has been supported by major grants from the British Academy, Leverhulme Trust, and European Commission. Notable publications include The Duke and the Stars: Astrology and Politics in Renaissance Milan (shortlisted for the Royal Historical Society’s Gladstone Prize) and edited volumes such as Italian Renaissance Diplomacy: Texts in Translation. Her research explores topics like Leonardo da Vinci’s anatomical studies, Renaissance astrology, and the cultural impact of natural disasters.

• Education: PhD (University of Cambridge), MPhil (Distinction), MA cum laude (Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore).
• Awards: Fellowship at I Tatti, Royal Historical Society Gladstone Prize nomination, Leverhulme Trust funding.
• Grants: Supported by European Commission, Global Challenges Research Fund, and others.

Her current projects investigate intersections between environmental history and early modern science, with a focus on Italy’s role in global knowledge networks. She advises students on topics related to early modern scientific practices and cultural history.