Winner of a 2020 Dompé Foundation scholarship and a 2023 graduate in the Master’s in Biomedical Omics from the University of Milan, Manuel Lessi is among the first fellows to be welcomed into the Dompé Foundation Alumni Network. Now in his first year of a PhD program in Neurogenomics at Human Technopole in Milan, he is exploring the correlation between genetic predisposition and environmental pollutants' exposure on neurodevelopmental disorders. Check out our video to find out what’s the most exciting thing about his research area, the personal achievement he is most proud of and who his role model is.

You’re currently pursuing a PhD in Neurogenomics at Human Technopole in Milan. What has brought you here?

After completing my Master’s in Biomedical Omics at the University of Milan, I felt the urge to further expand my research activity. Therefore, I joined the lab of Professor Giuseppe Testa here at the Human Technopole, where I’m doing the first year of my PhD in Neurogenomics. During my master’s degree, I undertook an internship here and I was really excited at the idea of reconnecting with the great scientists and people I previously worked with.

What’s the most exciting thing about your research area?

My research gravitates around the RE-MEND European consortium, in which I have the opportunity to investigate which is the interplay between genetic predisposition and environmental pollutants in neurodevelopmental disorders occurrence. I’m very excited since I can implement advanced biological models, like brain organoids, and also include in my work real-life epidemiological data.

What personal achievement are you most proud of?

The personal achievement I’m most proud of was presenting my work at Enable conference in Cologne, Germany, as I had the opportunity to meet and connect with great scientists and share my work with the community.

Who is your role model and why?

One of my role models is Jonas Salk, a medical researcher that is best known for having developed the first successful polio vaccine. He was so sure about his work that he decided to inoculate his vaccine to himself, his children and also his wife even though the scientific community was against this kind of approach. Nevertheless, he succeeded and his resilience inspires me in my own journey.

Why has the Dompé Foundation scholarship been important for you?

The Dompé Foundation scholarship has been important for several reasons. It allowed me to make the most out of my degree without the burden of financial pressure. Additionally, it boosted my self-confidence as it’s always nice to know there’s someone cheering for you.