Short Term Scientific Mission grants 2017-28

The STSM award allowed me to work closely with one of the most prominent scientists in mechanobiology. My experience was very productive and I had the opportunity to learn state-of-the-art of complex modelling of soft biological media.

My STSM was very interesting and informative. The connection between European and the wider world - in this case Japan, facilitates the exchange of different ideas and procedures, ensuring the build-up of exciting international networks.

In particular, my experience at J.A.S.M.I.N.E. Veterinary Clinic allowed for the development of a new procedure, aimed at the decellularisation of swine heart. This provided the opportunity to develop an in vitro methodology addressed to the management of pathologies such as mitral and tricuspid deficiency, both in human and animal patients. My STSM also led to the creation of solid relationship; it consolidated data for future research, which will in due course bring scientific publications. The collaboration between our European laboratory and the Japanese Institution will conduct to a deeper understanding of the changes taking place within the extracellular matrix during the development of degenerative diseases and the potential future treatments.

The STSM was a great experience for me. I learned a lot of new things throughout it and had the opportunity to meet some incredible people.

This STSM has been a valuable experience for me. Firstly because I had the opportunity to learn new techniques and obtain important results that will advance my future research effort. All of that was possible thanks to my supervisor and incredibly patient and helpful lab mates. During my stay I always felt included and I particularly enjoyed all kinds of knowledge exchange and discussions with other students.