Despoina is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Pedagogical and Educational Sciences. She holds a Master’s degree in Research on Teaching and Learning from the Technical University of Munich, as well as a PhD from the International Doctoral School REASON at Ludwig Maximilians University of Munich. Her doctoral research explored the Research-Practice Gap in Teacher Education: Beliefs, Evidence, and Practice of University-Based Teacher Educators. Despoina’s research interests primarily focus on the professional development and learning of university teachers, with particular emphasis on integrating innovative instructional practices, including technology. Since August 2023, Despoina has served as the coordinator for Special Interest Group 4 on Higher Education at EARLI.