Graduate in 1989 at the Federal Institute of Technology in Lausanne (EPFL), he has worked for 21 years in the industry of the machine tool (design of generators for EDM machines). His last position has been the head of the Generator Competence Centre for a company member of the +GF+ group.

In 2010, Nicola has joined hepia where he teaches electronics and supervises Bachelor and Master thesis. He participates in various projects in collaboration with industries in the areas of analogue, digital and power electronics, embedded systems and implementation of sensors in the context of the Internet of Things.