Meet Irene Smiderle, a driven 23-year-old pursuing a Master’s in Molecular and Medical Biotechnology at the University of Verona. With a passion for molecular pharmacology, Irene sees this field as more than just a collection of laboratory techniques; it’s a vehicle for developing knowledge that will ultimately contribute to saving patients’ lives. While science holds a special place in her heart, her interests extend beyond the laboratory walls: in her spare time, she loves playing the guitar and cooking. Check out our video to discover more about this multi-talented girl, who is also among the winners of a Dompé Foundation scholarship in 2022.

Describe yourself in one word

The adjective that best describes me is definitely stubbornness. While many people might see it as a negative side of my character, I like to interpret it as determination. I am someone who keeps trying and experimenting, and I only stop when I achieve my goals.

Can you tell us about your internship?

I’m currently doing an internship at the Pharmacology Laboratory of the University of Verona, and it will last approximately one year. What we do is study brain cell cultures, particularly three-dimensional ones, also known as organoids.  The use of organoids is becoming increasingly widespread because they allow us to anticipate how a patient’s organ may react to potential treatments, but they also enable us to reduce animal experimentation.

What is your favorite subject at university so far and why?

The subject that I loved the most so far is Molecular Pharmacology. This discipline explores the molecular principles of drugs and how they function in our bodies. I like to think that everything I’m studying is not just a laboratory technique, but something that can aid in saving a patient’s life in the future. 

Name one thing on your wishlist

At the top of my wishlist is definitely the opportunity to spend a period abroad. In particular, I have the United States in mind as I believe it’s a highly advanced country in terms of research. Moreover, part of my family lives there. Additionally, travelling makes me feel like a global citizen, and to me, there’s no better feeling!

How does it feel to have someone cheering for you?

I have always had the need to feel welcomed, stimulated, and understood. Having someone who cheers for me, like the Dompé Foundation, certainly boosts my confidence in my abilities and motivates me to constantly strive for improvement.

What are your passions besides science?

My passions outside the laboratory are mainly two: music and cooking. I have been playing the guitar for over 10 years, and I have always found music to be an escape from reality and a means to deal with negative situations. Cooking, on the other hand, is a passion that I’ve shared with my brother since childhood. I believe there is no better way to express love and affection to loved ones than by preparing meals for them.

Who is your source of inspiration?

My source of inspiration is my grandmother Giuliana. She is a tireless and truly patient woman. They say “Calmness is the virtue of the strong”, and she embodies this proverb completely.

What feelings did you have when you applied for the Dompé Foundation Scholarship?

When I began completing the Dompé Foundation scholarship application, I initially hesitated because I believed my chance of success were slim. Then, I changed my mindset and embraced the phrase “If you never try, you will never know,” especially because my parents have always taught me to seize every opportunity and give my best. So here I am, a few months after being awarded this scholarship, with a greater self-awareness and belief in my potential.