Researcher at Technological Innovation Research Institute
My research interest lies at the intersection of molecular virology and structural vaccinology. As Head of the Virology Unit at the Research and Innovation Technology Institute (RIT), Area Science Park in Trieste, I lead the development of innovative countermeasures against emerging viral threats.
During my previous position at the MRC-University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research (CVR- Scotland), I supervised the design and preclinical evaluation of a Zika virus vaccine candidate while characterizing the phenotypic impact of viral mutations. Building on this expertise, my unit now collaborates with the Laboratory of Data Engineering to pioneer AI- and structure-guided approaches for rational antigen design, focusing on viral envelope dynamics and neutralizing monoclonal antibody discovery.
In addition, I supervise research into the mechanisms by which emerging SARS-CoV-2 mutations alter the cellular DNA damage response, inflammation, and senescence pathways. In collaboration with the University of Trieste, we also evaluates novel broad-spectrum antiviral peptides targeting priority arboviruses.
Research Interest
- Arboviruses
- Coronaviruses
- Vaccine development
- Antibody discovery
- Antiviral peptides
- Antiviral response
Experience & Education
- Research Associate at MRC-University of Glasgow Centre For Virus Research (CVR), 2020
- Research Assistant at MRC-University of Glasgow Centre For Virus Research (CVR), 2016
- PhD in Molecular Genetics and Biotechnology at University of Nova Gorica, 2016
- MSc in Functional genomics at University of Trieste, 2011