I started my studies in 2018, getting my bachelor’s degree in 2021 in General and applied biology (University of Naples Federico II). After that, I enrolled for a master’s degree in biology of extreme environments (University of Naples Federico II), with a focus on astrobiology, because I was fascinated by the idea of studying how Life could have emerged on our planet, and maybe elsewhere in the universe. During my master’s studies I’ve learned a lot about extremophiles and the molecular adaptations that allow them to thrive in such extreme environments.

Amazed by those adaptations, I decided to carry on my thesis project in Prof. Dr. Marco Moracci’s lab (Naples, Italy), working on the expression and characterization of carbohydrate active enzymes identified by metagenomic approach from samples collected hot acidic environments (Pisciarelli’s solfatara, Naples). After my graduation, I had the chance, thanks to the Erasmus+ project, to do a traineeship in Prof. Dr. Bettina Siebers lab (Essen, Germany). There I learnt a lot about the thermo-acidophile Sulfolobus acidocaldarius and the way it produces biofilm. After that experience, I’ve decided to apply for a PhD position there and continue working on biofilm from extremophiles.

Project Title: 

Analysis of EPS composition and identification of enzymes involved in the archaeal biofilm dispersal

My scientific interests:

What I’m really interested in, connected also to my previous studies, is how the first forms of life arose, how they might have looked like and the evolutive connections between them and the multitude of life forms currently inhabiting our planet. These themes also determine my interest in extremophiles, their unique adaptations and their possible resemblance to such ancient organisms. Studying extremophiles can unveil key features that might have belonged also to the first life forms appeared on Earth.

I like to do in my free time:

When I’m not working you might find me around at some flea market, record store or vintage store. I’m really into music and I’m always looking for new vinyl records to expand my collection. I’m quite into film photography as well, I always bring a camera and a brand-new film roll during my trips or when I hang out with friends.  I’m also a sporty person, I love to play football, running and to train at the gym. I’ve, lately, discovered also padel and bouldering, thanks to my colleagues, and I find them both challenging and entertaining.