Melina Risso serves as a Research Director at Instituto Igarapé. She is also recognized as the author of the book "Segurança Pública para Virar o Jogo." Her expertise extends to public policy, as evidenced by her role as a member of the National Public Security Policy Council from Brazil's Ministry of Justice and Public Security.

Her career includes leadership positions such as Program Director at Instituto Igarapé and Director at Instituto Sou Da Paz.