Dr. Alessandra Rossi, PhD

Dr. Alessandra Rossi is a renowned Italian scholar and cultural analyst specializing in sexuality, society, and cultural dynamics. Over the past 12 years, she has combined sociological research with public education, exploring how sexuality intersects with social norms, media, and cultural transformations. Her work focuses on fostering inclusive understanding of sexual identities, cultural diversity, and gender dynamics across societies.

Specialization

Cultural Sociology of Sexuality
Gender Studies
LGBTQ+ Rights and Social Inclusion
Media and Sexual Representation
Anthropology of Sexual Practices

Education

2005–2009: BA in Sociology, University of Bologna
2009–2011: MA in Gender and Cultural Studies, University of Florence
2011–2015: PhD in Social and Cultural Anthropology, Sapienza University of Rome

Professional Experience

2015–2018: Research Fellow, Italian National Institute for Social Studies
2018–2022: Lecturer in Sexuality and Society, University of Milan
2022–Present: Director of Cultural Sexuality Programs, European Institute of Social Research
Consultant for NGOs on sexuality, culture, and social inclusion policies

Selected Scientific Publications

Rossi, A. (2021). "Sexuality and Cultural Identity in Contemporary Italy." Journal of Sexuality & Society, 14(2), 112–135.
Rossi, A., & Bianchi, L. (2019). "Media Representations and LGBTQ+ Visibility." International Journal of Cultural Studies, 22(5), 543–560.
Rossi, A. (2017). "Rethinking Gender Norms in Mediterranean Societies." Anthropology of Sexuality Review, 9(1), 78–101.

Professional Memberships

European Sociological Association (ESA)
Italian Association for Gender Studies (AISG)
International Association for the Study of Sexuality, Culture & Society (IASSCS)

Participation in International Projects

Lead Researcher, UNESCO “Sexuality and Cultural Diversity” Initiative (2019–2022)
Advisor, European Commission on Gender Equality and Sexual Rights (2018–2021)
Project Director, Global LGBTQ+ Social Inclusion Program (2022–Present)

Work on Educational Programs

Developer of university-level courses on sexuality, society, and media
Creator of workshops for educators on inclusive cultural approaches to sexuality
Online course designer for cross-cultural sexual literacy programs

Interviews, Lectures, and Podcasts

Guest on Rai Radio 3: "Culture and Sexuality in Modern Europe"
TEDx Talk: "Understanding Sexual Diversity through Cultural Lenses" (2020)
Contributor to the podcast “Society & Desire”

Unique Values and Experience

Dr. Rossi integrates anthropological insight with sociological research, emphasizing the role of culture in shaping sexual norms. Her experience across European and global research projects provides a rare perspective on sexuality, social inclusion, and media influence, making her a highly credible voice in Sexuality, Society & Culture.