Pharmacological Biomolecular Sciences, Experimental and Clinical
Doctoral programme (PhD)
A.Y. 2025/2026
Study area
Science and Technology
PhD Coordinator
The doctoral programme, a third cycle programme, makes the most of the multidisciplinary knowledge of the teaching staff to train biomedical experts in the most modern aspects of pharmacological research. In particular, the areas of interest are:
? Basic research: the study of key mechanisms and molecules in physiopathological processes to identify new pharmacological targets and/or new markers predictive of disease and therapeutic effectiveness. Research involves: 1) the analysis of molecular and cellular aspects of complex physiological processes, 2) the study of pathogenic mechanisms in diseases, 3) the study of biological markers of use in translation of preclinical research to humans.
? Research applied to the pharmacological-toxicological study of active ingredients: 1) analisi analysis of the activity of active principles, including biological drugs under development or in clinical use, 2) analysis of foods, food supplements and therapeutic plant derivatives, 3) analysis of xenobiotic activity.
? Research applied to the creation of innovative systems for studying pathologies and developing drugs and evaluation of their effects on the population. Basic research on: 1) the development of cellular and animal models also through genetic engineering methodologies, 2) optimising preclinical protocols for simple and complex diseases, including co-morbidities 3) in silico approaches to the study of new drug-toxicology targets, 4) the use of databases and population studies also to assess drug use and outcomes in terms of clinical events.
? Technical-scientific collaboration for revising documentation on active compounds and plant protection products and for drug safety and with other clinical centres.
In conclusion, students will develop competencies applicable to various areas of academic and industrial research, allowing effective ?bench to bed? translation and a multidisciplinary approach essential for public health, with significant socio-economic impact on health.
? Basic research: the study of key mechanisms and molecules in physiopathological processes to identify new pharmacological targets and/or new markers predictive of disease and therapeutic effectiveness. Research involves: 1) the analysis of molecular and cellular aspects of complex physiological processes, 2) the study of pathogenic mechanisms in diseases, 3) the study of biological markers of use in translation of preclinical research to humans.
? Research applied to the pharmacological-toxicological study of active ingredients: 1) analisi analysis of the activity of active principles, including biological drugs under development or in clinical use, 2) analysis of foods, food supplements and therapeutic plant derivatives, 3) analysis of xenobiotic activity.
? Research applied to the creation of innovative systems for studying pathologies and developing drugs and evaluation of their effects on the population. Basic research on: 1) the development of cellular and animal models also through genetic engineering methodologies, 2) optimising preclinical protocols for simple and complex diseases, including co-morbidities 3) in silico approaches to the study of new drug-toxicology targets, 4) the use of databases and population studies also to assess drug use and outcomes in terms of clinical events.
? Technical-scientific collaboration for revising documentation on active compounds and plant protection products and for drug safety and with other clinical centres.
In conclusion, students will develop competencies applicable to various areas of academic and industrial research, allowing effective ?bench to bed? translation and a multidisciplinary approach essential for public health, with significant socio-economic impact on health.
Classi di laurea magistrale - Classes of master's degree:
LM-6 Biologia,
LM-7 Biotecnologie agrarie,
LM-8 Biotecnologie industriali,
LM-9 Biotecnologie mediche, veterinarie e farmaceutiche,
LM-13 Farmacia e farmacia industriale,
LM-17 Fisica,
LM-18 Informatica,
LM-21 Ingegneria biomedica,
LM-41 Medicina e chirurgia,
LM-42 Medicina veterinaria,
LM-55 Scienze cognitive,
LM-60 Scienze della natura,
LM-61 Scienze della nutrizione umana,
LM-69 Scienze e tecnologie agrarie,
LM-70 Scienze e tecnologie alimentari,
LM-75 Scienze e tecnologie per l'ambiente e il territorio,
LM-82 Scienze statistiche,
LM/SNT1 Scienze infermieristiche e ostetriche,
LM/SNT2 Scienze riabilitative delle professioni sanitarie,
LM/SNT3 Scienze delle professioni sanitarie tecniche,
LM/SNT4 Scienze delle professioni sanitarie della prevenzione.
LM-6 Biologia,
LM-7 Biotecnologie agrarie,
LM-8 Biotecnologie industriali,
LM-9 Biotecnologie mediche, veterinarie e farmaceutiche,
LM-13 Farmacia e farmacia industriale,
LM-17 Fisica,
LM-18 Informatica,
LM-21 Ingegneria biomedica,
LM-41 Medicina e chirurgia,
LM-42 Medicina veterinaria,
LM-55 Scienze cognitive,
LM-60 Scienze della natura,
LM-61 Scienze della nutrizione umana,
LM-69 Scienze e tecnologie agrarie,
LM-70 Scienze e tecnologie alimentari,
LM-75 Scienze e tecnologie per l'ambiente e il territorio,
LM-82 Scienze statistiche,
LM/SNT1 Scienze infermieristiche e ostetriche,
LM/SNT2 Scienze riabilitative delle professioni sanitarie,
LM/SNT3 Scienze delle professioni sanitarie tecniche,
LM/SNT4 Scienze delle professioni sanitarie della prevenzione.
Dipartimento di Scienze farmacologiche e biomolecolari - Via G. Balzaretti, 9 - 20133 Milano
- Degree course coordinator: Giuseppe Danilo Norata
[email protected] - Main offices
Dipartimento di Scienze farmacologiche e biomolecolari - Via G. Balzaretti, 9 - 20133 Milano - Degree course website
https://sites.unimi.it/scuolascifarm
| Title | Professor(s) |
|---|---|
| Characterization of subclinical atherosclerosis in the diabetic patient: specific differences in various biomarkers of organ damage and endothelial dysfunction between type 1 and type 2 diabetic patients
Requirements: Good knowledge of the main computer applications. Appreciated but not indispensable requirement: basis of statistics and epidemiology |
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| Familial aggregation of subclinical atherosclerosis: relationships among markers of subclinical atherosclerosis in first-degree relatives including grandparents, parents, children, and siblings (including monozygotic and dizygotic twins)
Requirements: Good knowledge of the main computer applications. Appreciated but not indispensable requirement: basis of statistics and epidemiology |
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| Role of the fibroblast growth factors system on the development of the atherosclerotic process induced by hypercholesterolemia.
Requirements: Knowledge of molecular biology and of the atherosclerosis. Previous lab expertise (PCR, immunohistochemistry, cell culture and flow-cytometry). |
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| Hematopoietic proliferation and remodeling of the vascular smooth muscle cells in atherosclerosis: role of the Runt-related transcription factor 1 (RUNX1).
Requirements: Knowledge of molecular biology and of the atherosclerosis. Previous lab expertise (PCR, immunohistochemistry, cell culture and flow-cytometry). |
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| Neuro-immuno-metabolic circuits activated during feeding.
Requirements: Basic knowledge of alimentary metabolism and of the innate immune response. Previous lab expertise (PCR, quantification of biomarkers (ELISA), immunohistochemistry, and flow-cytometry). |
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| Identification of novel nutritional and inflammatory biomarkers useful to optimize the risk prediction for cardio-metabolic and chronic mental disorders.
Requirements: Basic skills of informatics and attitude for the understanding of novel tools of bioinformatics and machine-learning. Basic knowledge of genetics and genetic variants. |
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| Immuno-metabolic reprogramming of T regulatory cells in cardio-metabolic diseases
Requirements: The candidate should have a good knowledge of the pathological mechanisms of cardiovascular diseases, practical experience in cell culture, molecular biology and phenotyping of immune response. |
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| Unveil immunometabolic checkpoints associated to cardio-immuno-metabolic diseases
Requirements: The candidate should have a good knowledge of the pathological mechanisms of cardiometabolic diseases, practical experience in molecular and cellular biology and immuno-histological analysis. |
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| Characterization of cardio-immuno-metabolic risk in survivals from hematological cancers
Requirements: The candidate should have a good knowledge of the pathological mechanisms of cardiometabolic and oncologic diseases, practical experience in molecular and cellular biology and phenotyping of immune response. |
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| Inhibition of c-jun N-terminal kinase 3 to prevent neurodegeneration associated with transient cerebral ischemia and in a thromboembolic model.
Requirements: Knowledge of basic biochemical and histological techniques, such as protein analysis, PCR, Western blot, immunofluorescence, and basic microscopy. Candidates with experience working with animal models will be preferred. |
|
| Setup of an in-vitro 3D model of quadripartite synapse to study synaptic plasticity and dysfunction.
Requirements: Previous experience in in vitro work, including cell culture management, pharmacological treatments, and experimental data analysis. |
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| Exploring the molecular and behavioral signature in anorexia nervosa: focus on sex-dependent vulnerability
Requirements: Expertise in gene (mRNA extraction, real-time PCR) and protein expression (subcellular fraction extraction, western blot, ELISA) studies. Expertise in basic morphological dendritic spine analyses using confocal microscopy. Basic expertise in animal manipulation. |
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| Dissecting the neurobiological mechanisms underlying psychostimulant use in a gene x environment condition
Requirements: Expertise in gene (real-time PCR) and protein (western blot, ELISA) expression studies and in animal manipulation. Expertise in basic morphological dendritic spine analyses using confocal microscopy. |
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| Lecithin:cholesterol acyltransferase (LCAT): from genetics to therapy.
Requirements: Laboratory experience: biochemical and molecular biology analyses, electrophoretic and chromatographic techniques, cellular and animal studies. |
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| Plasma and brain cholesterol metabolism in neurodegenerative disorders.
Requirements: Laboratory experience: biochemical and molecular biology analyses, electrophoretic and chromatographic techniques, cellular studies. |
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| Plasma cholesterol esterification and structural/functional lipoprotein abnormalities in familial dyslipidemias.
Requirements: Laboratory experience: biochemical analyses, electrophoretic and chromatographic techniques, cellular studies. |
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| Alagille syndrome: role of lipoproteins in cardiovascular and renal complications.
Requirements: Laboratory experience: biochemical and molecular biology analyses, electrophoretic and chromatographic techniques, cellular studies. |
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| Blood-borne Tissue Factor: redefining the contribution of the different sources to in vivo thrombin generation and pharmacological modulation
Requirements: Expertise in cell and molecular biology, flow cytometry and (confocal) microscopy is an advantage for the position. Familiarity with hemostatic mechanisms. Attitude to work both independently and as part of a team. Specific expertise in the field of cardiovascular diseases will represent a significant add-on to the candidate’s CV. |
|
| Identification of platelet activation biomarkers for improving thrombotic risk stratification in coronary artery disease patients
Requirements: Expertise in cell and molecular biology, flow cytometry and (confocal) microscopy is an advantage for the position. Familiarity with hemostatic mechanisms. Attitude to work both independently and as part of a team. Specific expertise in the field of cardiovascular diseases will represent a significant add-on to the candidate’s CV. |
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| Dissecting the mechanisms responsible for platelet procoagulant phenotype and pharmacological modulation by antiplatelet, anticoagulant and anti-inflammatory drugs
Requirements: Expertise in cell and molecular biology, flow cytometry and (confocal) microscopy is an advantage for the position. Familiarity with hemostatic mechanisms. Attitude to work both independently and as part of a team. Specific expertise in the field of cardiovascular diseases will represent a significant add-on to the candidate’s CV. |
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| Exploring the role of a novel gene implicated in neural crest cell development and splicing processes.
Requirements: The candidate should have good knowledge of neurobiology and related techniques. Laboratory experience in embriology is preferable. |
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| Applying in vitro and in vivo models for the identification of novel pharmacological targets for the cure of CHARGE Syndrome.
Requirements: The candidate should have good knowledge of cell biology principles and techniques, with a particular focus on the use of high-throughput imaging platforms. |
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| Use of cellular and animal models to study the effects of nanoplastic pollution on the development and function of GnRH neurons that control reproduction
Requirements: The candidate should have good knowledge of neuroendocrinology principles and techniques. Laboratory experience in the manipulation of murine in vitro and in vivo models is preferable. |
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| Application of in vitro and in vivo experimental models for the functional study of novel genes implicated in the onset of neurodevelopmental disorders
Requirements: The candidate should have good knowledge of developmental neurobiology principles and techniques. Laboratory experience in cellular and molecular biology, and histology are preferable. |
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| Evaluating innovative molecular strategies to address amyloisodis.
Requirements: Ability to work in a translational setting that involves managing both patient anamnesis and molecular analysis of their biological samples. Teamwork capabilities and flexibility. |
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| Translational approaches for the identification of new molecular mechanisms underlying hypertension-related heart diseases.
Requirements: Ability to work in a translational setting that involves managing both patient anamnesis and molecular analysis of their biological samples. Teamwork capabilities and flexibility. |
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| Advancing Precision Diagnosis and Risk Stratification in Familial Hypercholesterolemia: An Integrated Lipidomic and Proteomic Approach
Requirements: Skills in lipoprotein biology, biochemistry , lipid metabolism, and metabolic pathways involved in familial hypercholesterolemia. Knowledge of techniques for the extraction, separation, identification, and quantification of lipids and proteins. Analysis of high-dimensional omics data. |
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| PCSK9: characterization of the protein and its interactions under physiological and pathological conditions, as well as following the administration of lipid-lowering drugs.
Requirements: Knowledge of lipid and lipoprotein metabolism, notions of genetics and molecular biology. Knowledge of techniques for the , isolation, identification, and quantification of lipids lipoproteins and proteins. |
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| Adverse Drug Reactions in Hospital: Prevention Strategies and Pharmacovigilance Promotion Tools
Requirements: Knowledge of pharmacology and pharmacovigilance. Skills in developing and managing databases. Knowledge of SPSS and SAS software. |
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| Anti-inflammatory drugs as adjuvant of antidepressant medication: from molecular central mechanisms to peripheral biomarkers.
Requirements: Knowledge and ability in performing behavioral tests in animal models of psychiatric disorders; Expertise in molecular and cellular biology methodologies, including real-time PCR, RNA sequencing, ELISA and immunohistochemistry. |
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| Early-life stress exposure and the comorbidity between mental and metabolic disorders: Can dietary interventions improve outcomes?
Requirements: Knowledge and ability in performing behavioral tests in animal models of psychiatric disorders; Expertise in molecular and cellular biology methodologies, including real-time PCR, RNA sequencing, ELISA and immunohistochemistry. |
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| Depressive symptoms during pregnancy, pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions, and their impact on the offspring: identification of underlying molecular mechanisms.
Requirements: Knowledge and ability in performing behavioral tests in animal models of psychiatric disorders; Expertise in molecular and cellular biology methodologies, including real-time PCR, RNA sequencing, ELISA and immunohistochemistry. |
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| The gut-brain axis in the development of multiple sclerosis and related trigeminal pain and its modulation with purple corn-derived nutraceuticals.
Requirements: previous experience in pharmacology, biochemistry and molecular biology and, preferably, in in vivo preclinical and behavioral studies. Specific expertise in the field of basic mechanisms of pain is not mandatory, although it may represent a significant add-on to the candidate’s CV. |
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| Studies on the mechanisms at the basis of neuropathic pain of different origin in mouse models, aimed at identifying new targets for innovative analgesics
Requirements: Previous experience in pharmacology, biochemistry and molecular biology and, preferably, in in vivo preclinical and behavioral studies. Specific expertise in the field of pain transmission is not mandatory, although it may represent a significant add-on to the candidate’s CV. |
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| The role of hypoglycaemic drugs in treating neuropsychiatric disorders: evidence-based and pharmacoepidemiologic approaches for supporting the clinical practice
Requirements: Pharmacology and Pharmacovigilance basic skills, Bibliographic searching basic skills, good knowledge of statistical analysis software e.g., R, SPSS, SAS. |
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| New pharmacological approaches to understand the molecular basis and treatment of iatrogenic obesity.
Requirements: Knowledge of molecular and cell biology (RT-PCR; primary and cell line cultures), biochemistry (western blotting) and histology (histochemistry, immunofluorescence). |
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| Evaluation of the impact of specific nutritional approaches and fasting-mimetic drugs on tumor metabolism, immune surveillance and chemotherapy efficacy
Requirements: Knowledge of biochemical cellular and molecular biology techniques |
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| Study of the role of membrane lipids and lipid metabolism in chemo resistance by biochemical and biophysical approaches
Requirements: Knowledge of biochemical cellular and molecular biology techniques |
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| Cigarette and modified tobacco products smoke as risk factors for cardiovascular diseases
Requirements: The candidate should carry on her/his research project independently and have a good attitude to working in a team with other lab members. Expertise in cellular and molecular biology is appreciated but not mandatory. |
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| New pharmacological approaches to modulate angiogenesis in cellular models.
Requirements: The candidate should carry on her/his research project independently and have a good attitude to working in a team with other lab members. Expertise in cellular and molecular biology is appreciated but not mandatory. |
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| Use of extracellular vesicles for the treatment of tumors and cardiovascular diseases: in vitro studies to unravel their properties as biomarkers or innovative drug-delivery systems
Requirements: Notions on extracellular vesicles, lipids, tumors and cardiovascular diseases, good handling practice (separations, lipid analysis, cell cultures), team working capacities, open to innovation and novelties. |
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| Impact of emerging environmental contaminants on the modulation of the immune system.
Requirements: Basic knowledge in immunology and toxicology, cell culture, and molecular biology techniques. |
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| Mechanistic understanding of the immunotoxic effects observed with RNA drugs
Requirements: Basic knowledge in immunology and toxicology, cell culture, and molecular biology techniques. |
|
| Epigenetic regulation of metabolism in physiology and disease states
Requirements: Knowledge of energy metabolism, analysis of the histone code by genomic and proteomic methodologies, and transcriptional regulation. Knowledge of the role of different organs (adipose tissue, skeletal and cardiac muscles, liver, and brain) and their composition into cellular subsets in integrating metabolism. . Understanding of bioinformatics methodologies for analysis of data from omics approaches. |
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| Study of selective histone deacetylase inhibitors and role in the regulation of metabolism in physiology and pathological states
Requirements: Knowledge of the principles of energy metabolism, analysis of metabolism and its regulation using genomic and metabolomic methodologies. Knowledge of cell types found in adipose tissue, skeletal muscle, and liver. Understanding of bioinformatics methodologies for analysis of data from omics approaches.. |
|
| Deciphering membrane contacts in neurodegenerative disorders.
Requirements: Good Knowledge in cellular and molecular biology techniques. Good background in neuroscience. Interest for working with cellular models. |
|
| The spreading of Tar-DNA-bindig protein 43 (TDP-43) aggregation.
Requirements: Good Knowledge in cellular and molecular biology techniques. Good background in neuroscience. Interest for working with cellular models. |
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| Molecular mechanisms of repeat expansion diseases: the role of CHIP protein.
Requirements: Good Knowledge in cellular and molecular biology techniques. Interest and aptitude for molecular and cellular studies in the neuroscience field. |
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| The role of chaperone mediated autophagy (CMA) in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis and Spinal and Bulbar Muscular Atrophy.
Requirements: Good Knowledge in cellular and molecular biology techniques. Interest and aptitude for molecular and cellular studies in the neuroscience field. |
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| Modulation of histone deacetylases in tumors
Requirements: Knowledge of energy metabolism, histone code analysis using genomic methodologies, gene expression analysis and transcriptional regulation. Approaches for biochemical and metabolic analysis in cancer models. |
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| Study of the structure, function and regulation of neuronatin in metabolism and pathophysiology.
Requirements: Principles of energy metabolism, analysis of metabolism and its regulation by next-generation biochemical methodologies and omics approaches. Understanding of the role of intracellular calcium fluxes in signal transduction in different organs and tissues and knowledge of gain-of-function and loss-of-function techniques of specific genes. |
|
| Innovative strategies for the functional cure of hepatitis B: development of entry inhibitors and capsid modulators
Requirements: Basic knowledge of cellular and molecular biology techniques; interest in the field of virology and motivation to work in a translational research context with potential therapeutic impact. |
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| Innate immunity and interferon response in viral hepatitis: identification of antiviral genes through CRISPR/Cas9 screening
Requirements: Basic knowledge of cellular and molecular biology techniques; interest in the field of virology and motivation to work in a translational research context with potential therapeutic impact. |
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| Botanicals to counteract Helicobacter pylori infection: anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and anti-adhesive effects in human gastric epithelial cells.
Requirements: Extract preparation from plant material, bio-guided fractionation, cell culture, H. pylori growth, transient transfections, ELISA, extraction of RNA and real time PCR, western blotting, biochemical assays. |
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| Botanicals with anti-inflammatory activity in skin diseases
Requirements: expertise related to extracts preparation from natural source, bio-guided fractionation, cell culture, transient transfections, ELISA, real time RT-PCR, use of LC-MS/MS instruments. |
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| Valorization of by-products from the food chain: phytochemical characterization and assessment of potential health properties.
Requirements: Extract preparation from plant material, bio-guided fractionation, cell culture, ELISA, RNA extraction and real time PCR, western blotting, biochemical assays, LC-MS analysis. |
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| Identification, development, and validation of new biomarkers and stratifiers for the implementation of personalized medicine in the treatment of brain tumors.
Requirements: Experience in the clinical practice and surgery of brain tumors; knowledge of biological and histopathological techniques aimed at the development of biomarkers and stratifiers. |
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| Neuroinflammatory Tumor Microenvironment of Meningiomas: Implications in Diagnostic, Prognostic and Therapeutic Approaches
Requirements: Experience in the clinical and surgical management of brain tumors. Expertise in molecular and cellular biology, as well as histopathological skills, applied to the study of the tumor microenvironment in meningiomas. |
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| Targeting synaptic remodeling to understand the neural basis of learning and behavior.
Requirements: Knowledge and a genuine interest in neuroscience; good collaborative and social skills and an open-minded |
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| Soma to synapse: the inverse communication ruling plasticity at specific synapses .
Requirements: Knowledge and a genuine interest in neuroscience; experience in performing laboratory work independently; good collaborative and social skills and an open-minded mind-set. |
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| Dissecting the physiopathological role of Rabphilin-3A at excitatory glutamatergic synapses.
Requirements: Knowledge and a genuine interest in neuroscience; good collaborative and social skills and an open-minded mind-set. |
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| Membrane transporters of the MCT family: integrated approaches for the characterization of their structure-function relationship
Requirements: knowledge of structural bioinformatics and molecular modeling techniques, with a specific focus on membrane transporters. |
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| In vitro characterization of biomolecular condensates formed via liquid-liquid phase separation of intrinsically disordered and/or amyloidogenic proteins.
Requirements: knowledge of biochemistry and molecular biology, particularly in recombinant protein expression and purification. |
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| Study of the role of extracellular vesicles in tumor microenvironment
Requirements: Expertise in cellular and molecular biology, good knowledge of tumor biology |
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| Characterization of tumor metabolism: correlation with cancer cell stemness and chemoresistance
Requirements: Expertise in cellular and molecular biology, good knowledge of tumor biology |
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| Repeated exposure to the psychostimulant cocaine during adolescence: behavioral and molecular correlates
Requirements: Expertise in gene and protein expression studies. Expertise in basic morphological dendritic spine analyses using confocal microscopy |
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| Early social adversity and risk for psychopathology: shedding light on the therapeutic potential of psychedelics
Requirements: Expertise in mRNA extraction and analysis (RT- real time PCR), protein extraction and analysis (western blot, ELISA). |
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| Investigating oligodendrocyte dysfunction in ALS: from molecular mechanisms to identifying therapeutic strategies and biomarkers
Requirements: Experience in cell and molecular biology techniques. Knowledge of neurodegenerative diseases represents an added value. |
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| Examining the sex-specific impact of metabolic syndrome-driven inflammation on neuroinflammation, myelin remodeling and functional recovery after brain ischemia
Requirements: Experience in cell and molecular biology techniques. Knowledge of neurodegenerative diseases represents an added value. |
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| Role of altered skeletal muscle function in motor neuron diseases.
Requirements: Basic knowledge of cellular and molecular biology techniques. |
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| Motoneuron pathology: role mitochondria.
Requirements: Basic knowledge of molecular and cellular biology techniques. |
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| An integrated human-in vitro approach to explore the role of miRNAs in the allergic asthma
Requirements: Cell culture techniques; Cytometer acquisition and analysis technique; Gene and protein expression technique; microRNA expression technique; Lymphomocytes isolation; Basic immunotoxicology background. |
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| Evaluation of genotoxic potential through the use of alternative methods
Requirements: Cell culture techniques; genotoxicity analysis; gene expression analysis techniques; basic knowledge of genotoxicology |
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| Neural bases of dynamic cooperation and adaptive strategies in mice
Requirements: Knowledge and a genuine interest in neuroscience; good collaborative and social skills and an open-minded mind-set. |
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| Dissecting the role of GluA3 subunit in brain functions: from synapse to behavior.
Requirements: Knowledge and a genuine interest in neuroscience; good collaborative and social skills and an open-minded mind-set. |
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| Identification of pharmacological approaches targeting the glutamatergic synapse in experimental models of alpha-synuclein-mediated toxicity.
Requirements: Knowledge and a genuine interest in neuroscience; good collaborative and social skills and an open-minded mind-set. |
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| Genetic deficiency of lysosomal acid lipase: focus on EXTRA-HEPATIC TISSUES and the impact of enzyme replacement therapies
Requirements: Basic knowledge of biochemical, cellular and molecular biology techniques |
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| Modulation of cancer cell viability by high density lipoproteins: from molecular mechanisms to therapeutic applications
Requirements: Basic knowledge of biochemical, cellular and molecular biology techniques |
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| Identification and characterization of novel autoantibodies and soluble biomarkers in antibody-mediated and paraneoplastic disorders of the central nervous system
Requirements: Previous experience in cell colturing, immunocitochemistry, immunohistochemistry, western blotting, and ELISA. Basic knowledge in immunology and neuroscience. |
G. Lauria Pinter
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| Development of an oligodendrocyte-based platform for the screening of neuroprotective drugs
Requirements: experience in the neuroscience field; experience in vitro on primary cultures from rat or mouse brain; skills in molecular biology (extraction of nucleic acids, qRT-PCR), statistics. |
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| Identification of post-transcriptional mechanisms underlying brain aging in glial cells
Requirements: experience in the neuroscience field; experience in vitro on primary cultures from rat or mouse brain; skills in molecular biology (extraction of nucleic acids, qRT-PCR), bioinformatics and sequence analysis; experience in manipulation of rats or mice will be preferred. |
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| Assessing molecular mechanisms in fibromyalgia syndrome.
Requirements: Teamwork capabilities and flexibility in adapting to new research directions and challenges; ability to identify and solve complex problems; laboratory or fieldwork experience in molecular biology. |
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| Investigating the molecular mechanisms that distinguish heart failure with preserved ejection fraction from heart failure with reduced ejcetion fraction.
Requirements: Teamwork capabilities and flexibility in adapting to new research directions and challenges; ability to identify and solve complex problems; laboratory or fieldwork experience in molecular biology. |
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| Electrophysiological study of peripheral GABAergic system
Requirements: Electrophysiology set up (patch/voltage clamp, extracellular field recording, ecc.). Primary glial and neuronal cell culture of PNS (dorsal root ganglia sensory neurons, Schwann cells, satellite cells, etc.). In vitro myelination model, cytofluorimetry, qRT-PCR, WB analysis, imaging (CLSM, morphometric analysis, EM, etc.), bioinformatics. |
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| Sudy of neuroinflammation in peripheral nervous system tumor
Requirements: Primary glial and neuronal cell culture (dorsal root ganglia sensory neurons, Schwann cells, satellite cells, macrophages, endothelial cells etc.). In vitro myelination model, cytofluorimetry, qRT-PCR, WB and proteomic, inflammasome set up, imaging (CLSM, morphometric analysis, EM, etc.), bioinformatics. |
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| Proteomic approaches to risk assessment for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease: application of mass spectrometry technologies and artificial intelligence/machine learning strategies
Requirements: Knowledge of molecular pathophysiology in the cardiovascular and metabolic area, experience in translational research laboratory, strong research motivation and team building skills |
P. Magni
|
| Biological activity of plant extracts from agri-food waste with sustainable methods: study of the potential relevance to cardiometabolic health by cell-based models of human origin
Requirements: Knowledge of molecular pathophysiology in the cardiometabolic area, experience in research laboratory (cell / molecular biology), strong motivation for research and team building skills |
P. Magni
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| Metabolomic analysis for prevention and early diagnosis of atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases with innovative technologies and artificial intelligence / machine learning approaches
Requirements: Knowledge of molecular pathophysiology in the cardiometabolic area, experience in translational research laboratory, strong research motivation and team building skills |
P. Magni
|
| Characterisation of nanoplastic-induced molecular damage in human cell-based models of normal and dysfunctional hepatocytes and adipocytes
Requirements: Knowledge of molecular pathophysiology in the cardiometabolic area, experience in basic/translational research laboratory, strong research motivation and team building skills |
P. Magni
|
| Role of HIV-1 Vpr Protein in Modulating the Transcriptome of CD4⁺ T Lymphocytes: Implications for Immune Evasion and Viral Persistence
Requirements: Interest in immunology and virology. Experience in techniques of primary cell culture and isolation of peripheral blood mononuclear cells. Basic knowledge of Flow cytometry and sorting techniques. Previous experience in BSL2 and/or BSL3. |
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| Transcriptomic Analysis of HIV-Infected CD4⁺ TSCM Cells: Identifying Novel Therapeutic Targets for Immune Exhaustion and Chronic Inflammation
Requirements: Interest in the area of virology and immunology. Experience in standard cell culture techniques, molecular biology and viral infectivity assays. Basic knowledge of Flow cytometry and sorting techniques. Previous experience in BSL2 and/or BSL3. |
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| Analysis of the crosstalk between ADAM10 and the NMDA receptor subunit GluN2A in synaptic plasticity phenomena.
Requirements: We look for a highly motivated person who is really interested in neurobiology and generally in neuroscience. Expertise in cellular and molecular biology is appreciated. |
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| The actin cytoskeleton at the intersection of mitochondrial dynamics and synaptic plasticity: from memory formation to cognitive deficits in Alzheimer's Disease
Requirements: We look for a highly motivated person who is really interested in studying Alzheimer's Disease. Expertise in cellular and molecular biology is appreciated. |
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| Exploiting directly converted induced neurons (iNs) from Alzheimer Disease-patient-derived fibroblasts to study cellular mechanisms underlying co-pathologies onset and progression.
Requirements: We look for a highly motivated person who is really interested in neurobiology and in cell reprogramming methodologies. Expertise in cellular and molecular biology is appreciated. |
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| Study of key proteins involved in the maintenance of homeostasis of the cell envelope of Gram-negative bacteria, as potential targets of new antibiotic therapies.
Requirements: Knowledge and familiarity with basic microbiology techniques, bacterial genetic and physiology, molecular biology, basic biochemistry techniques. |
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| Deciphering the mechanistic basis of how LD-transpeptidases protect against outer membrane defects of Gram-negative bacteria
Requirements: Knowledge and familiarity with basic microbiology techniques, bacterial genetic and physiology, molecular biology, basic biochemistry techniques. |
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| Exploring protective effects of steroid molecules in an experimental model of male sexual dysfunction induced by antidepressant drugs.
Requirements: Experience in laboratory techniques (nucleic acid and protein extraction and analysis). Basic experience in in vivo models (e.g., behavioral analysis). Knowledge of analyses in the field of steroids and neurotransmitter. |
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| Etiopathogenesis of female sexual dysfunction induced by antidepressant drugs: role of steroid molecules
Requirements: Experience in laboratory techniques (nucleic acid and protein extraction and analysis). Basic experience in in vivo models (e.g., behavioral analysis). Knowledge of analyses in the field of steroids and neurotransmitter. |
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| Etiopathogenesis of Post-finasteride syndrome
Requirements: Experience in laboratory techniques (nucleic acid and protein extraction and analysis). Basic experience in in vivo models (e.g., behavioral analysis). Knowledge of analyses in the field of steroids and neurotransmitter. |
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| Gut-brain axis: role of steroid molecules
Requirements: Experience in laboratory techniques (nucleic acid and protein extraction and analysis). Basic experience in in vivo models (e.g., behavioral analysis). Knowledge of analyses in the field of steroids and neurotransmitter. |
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| Role of sexual dimorphism of adipocytes in interaction with breast cancer cells.
Requirements: knowledge in biochemistry, energy metabolism, and quantitative analysis by liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry of metabolites involved in different metabolic pathways. Metabolic flux analysis. Gene expression analysis. |
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| Unravelling the role of the novel mitochondrial regulator Zc3h10 in diabetes.
Requirements: Gene expression analysis and regulation. Energy metabolism. Quantitative analyses by liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry of metabolites involved in different metabolic pathways. Metabolic flux analysis. |
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| Metabolomic and lipidomic approaches to study pathologies characterized by metabolic dysfunction.
Requirements: knowledge of lipid, glucose and amino acid metabolism. Quantitative analyses by liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry of metabolites involved in different metabolic pathways. Metabolic flux analysis. |
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| Body weight memory: molecular bases and metabolic implications
Requirements: Knowledge of molecular and cellular biology techniques, transcriptomic analysis, and experience with animal models |
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| Extracellular matrix control of adipocyte differentiation
Requirements: Experience in 3D cell cultures, imaging, and extracellular matrix analysis techniques |
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| Cellular senescence and metabolic diseases
Requirements: Expertise in molecular and cellular biology, with interest in studying models of premature aging and metabolic dysfunctions |
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| Study of the role of ANGPTL3 in the reprogramming of hepatic metabolism and its impact at the systemic level.
Requirements: Knowledge of metabolic pathways, lipoprotein metabolism, liver biology and previous experience in molecular biology laboratory (PCR, western blotting, histology). Basic bioinformatics knowledge. |
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| Unraveling the cross-talk between Kupffer cells and hepatocytes in the development and progression of dysmetabolic disorders.
Requirements: Metabolic pathways knowledge, basic immunology notions, previous experience in molecular biology laboratory (PCR, western blotting, cell cultures, flow cytometry, histology). |
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| Role of lipids and lipoprotein metabolism in hepatic metabolic reprogramming during metabolic syndrome.
Requirements: The candidate should show proficiency in the use of molecular biology and biotechnological methods. Previous lab expertise (PCR, immunohistochemistry, cell culture and flow-cytometry). |
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| Investigate the impact of lipoprotein metabolic mediators on adaptive immune system in the development of heart failure.
Requirements: Knowledge of molecular biology and the use of innovative technics for the study of metabolism in vivo and in vitro. |
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| Functional and molecular characterization of organelle-specific nutrient transporters as novel targets of metabolic regulation and cellular homeostasis
Requirements: Knowledge in cellular and molecular biology, fluorescence microscopy techniques, ion imaging, omics, stem cells, animal models of diseases. |
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| Energy Metabolism in Parkinson's Disease: molecular characterization and targets of therapeutic interventions
Requirements: Knowledge in cellular and molecular biology, fluorescence microscopy, ion imaging techniques, experience on animal models of diseases and/or induced pluripotent stem cells. |
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| Molecular characterization of polyploid giant cancer cells: implications for chemoresistance development
Requirements: Knowledge in cellular and molecular biology, super-resolution fluorescence microscopy techniques, ion imaging, animal models of diseases, 2D and 3D cultures, transcriptomic and proteomic. |
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| Investigating novel pathogenic mechanisms and alterations in muscle biology by modelling HSPB8 pathology
Requirements: Good knowledge of basic neuroscience and motor functions and of the ribosomal and protein quality control system for application in neuromuscular diseases. Interest and aptitude for molecular, biochemical and cellular studies in cell models of disease |
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| Protective mechanisms against neurotoxic proteins in motoneuron diseases.
Requirements: Good knowledge of basic neuroscience and motor neuron diseases. Interest and aptitude for molecular and cellular studies in cells and animal |
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| New approaches to counteract the androgen receptor neurotoxicity in SBMA
Requirements: Good knowledge of basic neuroscience and motor neuron diseases. Interest and aptitude for molecular and cellular studies in cells and animal |
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| Exploring the biology of micropeptides differentially enriched during embryonic cardiogenesis in order to identify novel targets for cardiac regenerative therapies
Requirements: Research experience in a molecular and cell biology laboratory. Willingness to work with animal models. Ability to work independently with proactive and problem solving attitude. Previous experience with the generation and data analysis of omic data is considered a plus. |
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| Modulation of the maturation capacity of cardiomyocytes derived from induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) through metabolically active microproteins
Requirements: Research experience in a molecular and cellular biology laboratory. Ability to work independently, with a proactive and problem-solving attitude. Previous experience with cardiac cultures, induced stem cell differentiation and metabolic analyses is considered a plus. |
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| Targeting the transcriptional landscape underlying pathologic activation of cardiac fibroblasts to develop novel anti-fibrotic therapies
Requirements: Experience working in a molecular biology lab, willingness to work with viral vectors and animal models. Capacity to work in a team, pro-active and problem-solving attitude. |
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| Adolescence at the Crossroads: Unraveling Vulnerability and Resilience to Prenatal Stress-Induced Psychopathology.
Requirements: Rodent behavioral neuroscience, including behavioral testing in models of psychiatric. Basic molecular biology skills (real-time PCR, transcriptomics, and immunocytochemical techniques) and proficiency in data analysis. |
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| The Adolescent Brain at Risk: How Stress and Drugs Permanently Reprogram Neurodevelopment
Requirements: Rodent behavioral neuroscience, including behavioral testing in models of psychiatric. Basic molecular biology skills (real-time PCR, transcriptomics, and immunocytochemical techniques) and proficiency in data analysis. |
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| Pharmacological Interventions in Mental Illness: Bridging Molecular Mechanisms and Brain Plasticity.
Requirements: Rodent behavioral neuroscience, including behavioral testing in models of psychiatric. Basic molecular biology skills (Real-time PCR, transcriptomics, and immunocytochemical techniques) and proficiency in data analysis |
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| Role of omega-3 fatty acids in the development and adjuvant therapy of chronic-degenerative diseases
Requirements: Knowledge of biochemical cellular and molecular biology techniques |
A. Rizzo
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| The role of nutraceutics in radioprotection
Requirements: Knowledge of biochemical cellular and molecular biology techniques |
A. Rizzo
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| Investigating the molecular mechanisms driving the chemotherapy-induced cardiotoxicity.
Requirements: A genuine interest in this research field of study and a desire to contribute new knowledge. Aptitude for tackling problems and developing solutions. Laboratory techniques, programming, and statistical analysis. |
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| Assessing the impact of extracellular vesicles in heart failure – transitioning from bystanders to key molecular contributors to damage.
Requirements: Un sincero interesse per questo campo di ricerca e il desiderio di contribuire con nuove conoscenze. Attitudine ad affrontare problemi e sviluppare soluzioni. Tecniche di laboratorio, programmazione e analisi statistica. |
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| Lysosomal quality control : Molecular mechanisms in rare genetic diseases.
Requirements: Good Knowledge in cellular and molecular biology techniques. |
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| Dissecting the role of Galectin-3 in neurodegenerative diseases.
Requirements: Good Knowledge in cellular and molecular biology techniques. Good preparation in the neuroscience field. |
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| Novel therapeutic approaches to treat pain and mood disorders in Fabry-Anderson disease.
Requirements: Highly motivated person, the candidate should work with preclinical models of disease and possess knowledge of methods for gene and protein expression evaluation. |
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| Prokineticin system as therapeutic target to fight pain in a murine model of multiple sclerosis (EAE)
Requirements: The student should be ready to perform behavioral experiments with mice in vivo. He/She should have basic knowledge of primary cultures and of biochemical and molecular biology methods. |
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| Ethnopharmacological study on the biological properties of plants and their preparations traditionally used in specific geographical or cultural contexts.
Requirements: Competences in the preparation of plant extracts, bio-guided fractionation, use of eukaryotic cell cultures, transient transfections, ELISA, real time PCR, western blotting, use of analytical instruments. |
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| Evaluation of botanicals in the intestine: permeability and anti-inflammatory activity.
Requirements: Competences in the preparation of plant extracts, bio-guided fractionation, use of eukaryotic cell cultures, transient transfections, ELISA, real time PCR, western blotting, use of analytical instruments. |
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| Biological activity and characterization of natural extracts prepared with innovative and eco-green technologies: from the university laboratory to the pharmaceutical industry.
Requirements: Competences in the preparation of plant extracts, bio-guided fractionation, use of eukaryotic cell cultures, transient transfections, ELISA, real time PCR, western blotting, use of analytical instruments. |
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| Study of heart-brain interaction: effects of cardiac damage on neuroinflammation and the development of neurodegenerative diseases.
Requirements: The candidate should have an interest in cardio- and cerebrovascular science and experience in molecular and cellular biology as well as immunohistochemistry. Experience with in-vivo models is preferred. |
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| Study of cross-talk between hypertension and neuroinflammation in an in vitro model based on a multicompartmental bioreactor
Requirements: The candidate should have an interest in cardio- and cerebrovascular science and experience in molecular and cellular biology as well as immunohistochemistry. Experience with in-vivo models is preferred. |
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| Molecular characterization of the multiprotein lipopolysaccharide transport complex (Lpt) in Escherichia coli as a target for new antibacterial strategies.
Requirements: Knowledge and familiarity with basic microbiology techniques, bacterial genetics, and molecular biology (molecular cloning, SDS-PAGE, immunoblotting techniques). |
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| Molecular characterization, and optimization of chimeric derivatives of the antimicrobial peptide Thanatin, for the development of inhibitors to prevent Pseudomonas aeruginosa infections.
Requirements: Theoretical and practical knowledge of basic microbiology and molecular biology techniques, and of the approaches to analyzing antibacterial properties of molecules (MIC, time-killing, Kirby Bauer, Checkerboard assay) |
Enrolment
Call for applications
The call for applications is being finalized. Please refer to the call, once it is available, for admission test dates and contents, and how to register.
Application for admission: application deadlines will be published shortly.
The call for applications is being finalized
Following the programme of study
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