Having been inspired by volunteering at organic farms in central Italy, I studied at SRUC to obtain a BSc in Agricultural Bioscience (awarded by University of Glasgow, 2017 –2021). During the degree, I was introduced to molecular biology concepts and decided to further develop my expertise by obtaining a MSc in Biotechnology (University of Glasgow, 2021 –2022). During my Master’s thesis, I was supervised by Professor John Christie on a project engineering the phototropin 2LOV2 protein to enhance the photosynthetic capability of barley.

My interests lie in understanding how microbes function, both individually (revealing the intricate systems within each cell) and collectively (how they communicate and form complex communities). By joining the BREAKthrough network as a doctoral candidate, I aim to expand our knowledge of the bacterial outer membrane and assist in developing new drugs that target its assembly. On a personal level, I look forward to gaining valuable practical and interpersonal skills through this position, equipping me to pursue a rewarding career in microbiology research. The BREAKthrough project offers an exciting opportunity to collaborate with leading experts and tackle fundamental questions in bacterial cell biology.