The European Commission appointed Maria Cristina Russo as Deputy Director-General responsible for Innovation, Prosperity and International Cooperation at its Directorate-General for Research and Innovation (DG RTD). Ms Russo will succeed Signe Ratso, who is retiring. The effective date of her appointment will be announced later.
Ms Russo has over 30 years of experience at the Commission. She has led large teams and has overseen major components of the Horizon Europe programme.Ms Russo is also recognised for her successful negotiations of international Scientific and Technical Cooperation agreements and Association Agreements with non-EU countries.
An Italian national, Russo is currently Director for Prosperity at DG RTD. She has held several senior positions within the Commission, including roles in international partnerships and consumer affairs.