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Pietro Boselli: The Equation of Beauty and Brains
READ TIME: 15 MIN.
In early 2015, the world met Pietro Boselli not through a runway or a magazine spread, but via a student’s viral Facebook post—a candid image of the young mathematics lecturer at University College London (UCL) that quickly captured the imagination of millions worldwide. The caption, “That moment when you realized your maths lecturer is one of the top designer model,” propelled Boselli into internet stardom and led to coverage by outlets ranging from People Magazine to The Guardian . Within days, Boselli was crowned “the world’s sexiest math teacher,” sparking conversations about beauty, intellect, and the boundaries of professional identity.
Boselli’s unique crossover between academia and fashion was not a sudden transformation. Born in Negrar, Italy, in 1988, he was scouted by Giorgio Armani at age seven, beginning a modeling career that spanned his adolescence and continued alongside his academic pursuits . Yet, it was his commitment to education and research that defined his sense of self and purpose—a theme that would emerge as central to his public persona.
Boselli’s journey from northern Italy to the heart of London’s academic and fashion scenes was marked by perseverance and ambition. After excelling in a rigorous Italian scientific high school curriculum that balanced humanities and STEM subjects , Boselli moved to London in 2007 to study Mechanical Engineering at UCL. He graduated with first-class honors and received the faculty’s award for outstanding achievement in 2010, immediately embarking on a PhD focused on computational and thermo-fluid design of turbine blades—a project sponsored by Hitachi .
During his doctoral studies, Boselli began teaching undergraduate mathematics and engineering courses, including Mathematical Modelling and Analysis, Computing, and Thermodynamics . His students, drawn to both his intellect and his striking appearance, frequently expressed admiration—culminating in the viral moment that changed his life .
Simultaneously, Boselli continued modeling for brands such as Armani, Abercrombie & Fitch, and Equinox, developing a profile that merged fitness, fashion, and intellectual rigor . He became the face of Emporio Armani’s EA7 line and appeared in international campaigns, leveraging his growing social media following—which would eventually reach millions .
Boselli’s story struck a chord with LGBTQ+ audiences worldwide, who saw in him not only an embodiment of physical beauty but also a challenge to stereotypes about masculinity, intelligence, and academic achievement. In interviews and public statements, Boselli has spoken about the importance of authenticity and the value of pursuing multiple passions—a message that resonates with individuals whose identities and interests often defy narrow societal categories .
Importantly, Boselli’s impact is amplified by his visibility in LGBTQ+ media. He has graced the cover of Attitude Magazine—a leading LGBTQ+ publication—and participated in campaigns that celebrate diversity, inclusion, and self-expression . His openness about his modeling career and his advocacy for embracing one’s true self have made him a role model for young LGBTQ+ people pursuing careers in STEM, fashion, or any field where authenticity is often undervalued.
While Boselli has not publicly identified as LGBTQ+, his story remains significant for the community. He represents the possibility of intersectionality—where intellectual achievement, physical expression, and personal identity can coexist harmoniously. His message, delivered in interviews and social media posts, is one of acceptance and empowerment: “Where there’s a will, there’s a way” .
Beyond academia and modeling, Boselli has established himself as a fitness athlete, designer, and entrepreneur. He is the founder of Petra Design, a brand specializing in high-performance sportswear made in Italy . His dedication to fitness—weightlifting, bodybuilding, swimming, and triathlon—reflects his philosophy that discipline and self-care are essential to well-being .
Boselli’s presence on Instagram and other platforms continues to inspire millions, offering a blend of workout routines, travel diaries, and motivational content. He emphasizes the importance of a balanced diet, outdoor exercise, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle—a message that aligns with the values of body positivity and holistic health celebrated in LGBTQ+ culture .
Pietro Boselli’s journey from a small town in Italy to global fame exemplifies the power of authenticity, hard work, and openness. For LGBTQ+ audiences, his story is a reminder that representation matters—not only in terms of sexual orientation or gender identity, but in the visibility of diverse talents and life paths. As Boselli continues to model, teach, and innovate, he challenges us to embrace complexity and celebrate every facet of our identities.
In the equation of modern celebrity, Boselli stands out as a solution—proof that intelligence and beauty, career and passion, public persona and private self, need not be mutually exclusive. His legacy is one of possibility, inviting all people—regardless of background or identity—to dream, work, and adapt.
