Winner of a Dompé Foundation scholarship in 2022, Marco Destito is now immersed in the final stages of his Master’s degree in Medical and Pharmaceutical Biotechnologies at the University of Pavia. As an intern under the guidance of Professor Lolicato, he is engaged in an exciting project centered around the reconstruction of the phylogenetic tree of a potassium channel. Beyond his academic pursuits, Marco is also a sports enthusiast who has learned the importance of goal setting and perseverance through his commitment to physical activity. Curious about Marco’s vision for his future and keen to uncover more about his journey? Then dive into this interview!

What’s the best advice you’ve ever been given?

The best advice I’ve ever been given is: “set a goal and do everything necessary to achieve it.” This lesson was imparted to me through sports, and I’ve adopted it as my daily life’s mantra.

Tell us about your internship

I’m currently carrying out my internship project at the University of Pavia, where I’m completing my Master's degree in Pharmaceutical Biotechnology. I’m working alongside Professor Lolicato on the reconstruction of the phylogenetic tree of a protein, specifically a potassium channel that plays a crucial role in many cardiac and neuronal functions. This project is providing me with valuable insights into the true essence of research and the skills required to succeed in this field. Above all, I’ve learned it’s important to collaborate with each other and integrate one's work with that of professionals from different fields and areas.

What does the Dompé Foundation Scholarship mean to you?

Receiving the Dompé Foundation scholarship was a delightful surprise. It definitely served as a boost to my self-confidence: knowing that there is someone out there who believes in me and supports me throughout my university career, can only make me feel good. Moreover, this funding opportunity allows me to be independent and to relieve my family of any financial burden. It allows me to solely focus on my academic and personal growth.

What do you hope for your future?

What I hope for my future is to find my own path, not only in my career but in all aspects of life. I would like to work in a place where I’m appreciated and challenged to grow, day after day, above all as a person. If I let my imagination run free, I dream of making a contribution to the field of research. It would be truly fulfilling to know that my work has led to tangible improvements in the world I live in and in people's well-being.