Meet Miriam Minervini, a passionate 24-year-old student from Apulia, Italy, who is currently pursuing her Master's degree in Medical Biotechnologies and Molecular Medicine at the University of Bari. Recipient of a Dompé Foundation scholarship in 2021, Miriam dreams of one day contributing to the understanding of the molecular mechanisms of diseases to pave the way for innovative treatments. Read our interview to learn more about her journey and future plans.

Why did you pick the Master’s degree in Medical Biotechnologies and Molecular Medicine?

I never settle for surface-level understanding: I’m excited to delve deep into things and comprehend their intricacies. Such curiosity led me to choose – after the Bachelor’s degree in Medical and Pharmaceutical Biotechnologies - the Master’s in Medical Biotechnologies and Molecular Medicine at the University of Bari. I find it fascinating to study and understand the complex mechanisms that govern life, but most importantly, to discover what happens when these fail to work.

What is your dream job?

I dream of working in the research field: I’m excited about the opportunity to contribute to the understanding of the molecular mechanisms of diseases, especially neoplastic ones, and to play an active role in the development of innovative treatments.

Tell us about your internship

I started my internship here at the University of Bari in March 2023. My job is to study the role that specific molecules play in the tumor context, with the aim of developing more effective diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. What I love about this internship is the sense of fulfillment I experience after each experiment. Every time, I’m aware that I’m one step closer to the answer I seek.

Name one thing on your bucket list

I would like to help one day creating more job opportunities in my land, Apulia. I hope that in the future this region will benefit from all those talents that are now forced to move elsewhere to pursue their aspirations.

What 3 words describe you best?

• Passionate: I dedicate myself to everything I do with great enthusiasm and devotion.

• Ambitious: I enjoy dreaming big.

• Tenacious: I work tirelessly to achieve the objectives I have set for myself.

What is your greatest weakness?

I’m very demanding of myself, never allowing room for mistakes and seldom forgiving myself when these occur. While this aspect of my personality serves as a driving force for constant improvement, it can be exhausting to live up to the high standards I set for myself and fully enjoy the accomplishments I achieve.

Who is your role model?

Without a doubt, my parents. They have taught me that commitment and dedication are essential in one’s work, and that with passion one can overcome any obstacle. 

What has the Dompé Foundation scholarship meant to you?

The Dompé Foundation scholarship has been an incredibly important stepping stone towards achieving my dreams. Additionally, it has served as a constant motivation for me to work harder and harder.