Position-mining & Peace Mediation

Mariazel Maqueda López holds a PhD in Microsystems and Microelectronics from the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (EPFL), building on a strong foundation in nanotechnologies and telecommunications from her bachelor’s and master’s studies. In 2014, a life-changing volunteer experience in Nairobi’s slums with the nonprofit Amani inspired her to focus her career on empowering vulnerable communities.She has since worked with international nonprofits such as SéCoDev, Caritas Internationalis, and B Lab Switzerland, specialising in sustainable development. In 2020, Mariazel joined the EPFL EssentialTech Centre to establish and lead its PeaceTech Division. Under her leadership, the division leverages cutting-edge technologies to prevent violence, and foster peace, with a focus on addressing gender-based violence. Passionate about interdisciplinary solutions, she is driven to align advanced technologies with the urgent needs of developing regions.