My academic journey at the University of Pavia has equipped me with a solid foundation in Biomedical Sciences. I obtained a bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences, a master’s degree in Experimental and Applied Biology (biomedical curriculum), and a PhD in Physiology.

During my MSc and PhD, I focused on the calcium signalling induced by the Vascular Endothelial Growth factor (VEGF) in endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs). Specifically, I uncovered the calcium channels and underlying signalling pathways responsible for VEGF-induced EPC proliferation and tubulogenesis, highlighting their value as a promising target for cell-based therapy. I further showed how aberrant expression of calcium channels altered the properties of EPCs from cancer patients, making them more prone to creating new blood vessels. I was then awarded a fellowship to undertake a post-doc at UMass Lowell (USA) where I focused on EPC differentiation. In 2015 I moved to the UCL Institute of Ophthalmology where I initially completed a project on the signalling pathways regulating the migration of immune cells across the blood-brain barrier. I was then awarded a short-term grant from Moorfields Eye Charity to establish a microscope platform to measure vascular permeability in the retina, followed by a research grant from Diabetes UK as a co-PI to study VEGF-induced leakage at blood-brain and blood-retinal barriers. Finally, I was promoted to Senior Research Fellow and I joined the Ruhrberg lab, to study the role of Neuropilin-1 in retinal vascular permeability. In 2022, I was awarded an 18-month Career Development Award from Moorfield Eye Charity to establish my research niche and study the role of calcium signalling in blood-retinal barrier dysfunction.

In November 2024 I was appointed Lecturer in Biomedical Sciences at the University of Brighton.

My research interests lie primarily in vascular biology, specifically in the signalling pathways regulating endothelial cell functions in physiological and pathological conditions. My current projects focus on the blood-retinal barrier and the molecular mechanisms elicited by permeability and inflammatory factors that lead to endothelial dysfunction with consequent vision impairment. Among those mechanisms, I am fascinated by calcium signalling and I am currently studying the role of calcium channels in blood-retinal barrier physiology and disease.

As an educator, I believe that fostering creativity and innovation is essential for preparing students to navigate and excel in an ever-evolving scientific landscape. My approach to teaching emphasises the development of creative problem-solving skills, encouraging innovative thinking, and nurturing a mindset that embraces curiosity and experimentation.

Encouraging creative problem-solving: creativity in the biological sciences involves not only understanding existing knowledge but also applying it in novel ways to solve complex problems. In my teaching, I present real-world challenges; I design assignments and projects that mimic real-world problems, encouraging students to think critically and creatively. These challenges often have multiple solutions, prompting students to explore different approaches and methodologies. By encouraging students to draw connections between different disciplines, I promote Interdisciplinary learning. This interdisciplinary approach helps them to see problems from different perspectives and come up with innovative solutions.

Fostering an innovative mindset: innovation is driven by a willingness to explore uncharted territories and take intellectual risks. To cultivate this mindset I create a safe learning environment by building a classroom atmosphere where students feel safe to express their ideas and take risks without fear of failure. Constructive feedback is provided to guide their thinking and help them learn from their mistakes. I always encourage curiosity and inquiry by inspiring students to ask questions and pursue their interests. By incorporating inquiry-based learning, I allow students to lead their investigations and discover new insights, fostering a deeper engagement with the material.

Ultimately, my goal is to inspire students to become the next generation of innovators in biology. I achieve this by providing personalised mentorship to help students identify their strengths and interests. I guide them in developing their own research projects and encourage them to present their findings in academic and professional settings.