2017 could not start in a better way for Italian scientists in the world. On January 7, three scientists born in Italy and currently working in the United States received a delayed Christmas gift, thanks to Barack Obama. The former American President named 102 scientists and researchers to receive the 2017 PECASE, the Presidential Early Career Awards for Scientists and Engineers. 

Considered the highest honor bestowed by the United States Government on science and engineering professionals in the early stages of their independent research careers, the award focuses on the key role that the Administration places in encouraging and accelerating American innovation to grow economy and tackle new challenges. The PECASE Awards, as stated in the White House website, recognize some of the finest scientists and engineers who, early in their research careers, show exceptional potential for leadership at the frontiers of scientific knowledge during the twenty-first century.