Alessandra Macchi, a master’s student in Medical and Pharmaceutical Biotechnologies at the University of Pavia and winner of a Dompé Foundation scholarship in 2021, sees biotechnologies as a vital component of progress and the future. She believes that without them, none of today’s major challenges, such as the energy crisis and climate change, could be tackled. In her opinion, the only limitation we face nowadays is our own imagination. Check out our interview to learn more about this bright talent and her journey, which has been especially inspired by two women.

What made you choose the Master’s degree in Medical and Pharmaceutical Biotechnologies?

It was reading Anna Meldolesi’s book, E l’uomo creo l’uomo, that I decided to pursue this degree. In 150 pages, the author explores the potential of the CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing technique. This revolutionary biotechnology has made what was once considered science fiction a reality. This reading has sparkled within me a desire to actively engage in scientific research and ultimately use my skills to improve the quality of people’s lives one day.

What do biotechnologies mean to you?

To me, biotechnologies represent progress and the future, not only in the medical field, where they can aid in early disease diagnosis, but in many other industries. In agriculture and energy, for example, biotechnology is used to develop bio-fertilizers and biofuels, respectively. Without it, therefore, it would be impossible to tackle today's major challenges, such as the energy crisis, climate change, and increasing food demands from a projected global population of 9 billion by 2050. With the tools available nowadays, our imagination is our real limit.

What do you love the most about your degree?

I find the most enjoyable aspect to be the relevance of the subjects studied. Biotechnology advances rapidly so reading books alone would not enable us to keep up with the latest techniques. It’s for this reason that in class we analyze scientific papers, which relate to ongoing research activities.

As part of your Master’s degree, you are undertaking a research internship at Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri. What’s the most exciting thing about this experience?

I’m thrilled to gain experience at this esteemed research center, where I’m working on the study of gut-brain correlation in epilepsy models. This fascinating and promising field of research offers me the unique opportunity to contribute to breakthroughs that could have a direct impact on the understanding and treatment of a highly complex disease.

What does the Dompé Foundation scholarship mean to you?

This scholarship has provided me with the practical opportunity to pursue my dreams. Furthermore, it has served as an immense source of motivation and encouragement.

What are your future aspirations?

My goal is to advance my career in pharmaceutical biotechnology, with aspirations of ultimately taking on a leadership role in research projects and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. I hope to work in a challenging and team-based environment, where I can participate in the development of innovative therapies and successful strategies.

Who is your role model in life?

I draw my greatest inspiration from my mother, an extraordinary woman who raised six children on her own. Her unwavering strength and resilience in the face of difficulty make her the greatest example to follow.

What’s your latest hobby?

Hiking. It gives me the chance to admire spectacular views, be in contact with nature, and, above all, know my limits better.

What’s your motto?

A quote from Nelson Mandela: «It always seems impossible until it’s done».