Valentina Gigante

Shipboard Psychologist | Human Factors & HR – Corsica Ferries | WISTA Italy Member

Valentina Gigante is an Italian psychologist and a pioneer in the emerging field of Shipboard Psychology, working at the intersection of Neuroscience, Human Factors, Crew Wellbeing and Maritime Safety.
With a degree in Psychology from the University of Padua, specialising in neuropsychology, and research experience in Neuroscience at University College London (UCL), she brings a scientific and evidence-based perspective to the human challenges of life and work at sea.
She pioneered the development of a dedicated psychological approach within the maritime operational environment, bringing psychology beyond traditional welfare models and directly into the reality of the ship. Her work focuses on mental health, human performance, resilience, communication, leadership and psychological readiness, translating psychological and neuroscientific knowledge into practical tools for seafarers and maritime organisations.
Her work has attracted growing attention across the Italian maritime and academic landscape, with coverage in major national media and interest from universities, institutions and industry stakeholders. She regularly contributes to discussions on the future of seafarer wellbeing, human factors and safety culture.
A member of WISTA Italy, Valentina is actively engaged in promoting a more human-centred and inclusive maritime industry, with particular attention to the psychological and organisational dimensions of life at sea. Her perspective is grounded in a simple principle: seafarer wellbeing is not an isolated welfare issue. It is a strategic component of safety, performance, retention and organisational resilience.
Today, her work explores how the maritime industry can combine the opportunities of technology and digital transformation with the human intelligence, connection and psychological support that seafarers need. High-tech requires high-touch. And at the centre of both is the human element.