The PhD Program in Molecular Genetics, Biotechnology, and Experimental Medicine (GMBMS) is designed to provide both theoretical and practical training for graduates in the fields of molecular genetics, biotechnology, and forensic medical sciences, with a focus on experimental medicine. This area of medicine encompasses a broad spectrum ranging from basic to applied research, with significant potential implications for translational medicine. Achieving these objectives requires a multidisciplinary framework, the adoption of diverse experimental approaches, and collaboration at all levels. Early-career researchers trained in these domains represent highly sought-after professionals, with growing demand from public and private institutions both in Italy and abroad. They are qualified to design, implement, and manage research projects, while also possessing expertise in applied aspects of life science research, including the development of innovative diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.
An important feature of the program is the integration of forensic medical sciences, a rapidly evolving field driven by the advancement of analytical techniques for biological samples. This enables multidisciplinary approaches that rely on modern and sophisticated instrumentation. For doctoral candidates, engaging with the ongoing research conducted by colleagues in different areas of experimental medicine plays a crucial role in fostering curiosity and promoting critical analysis of data beyond the scope of their individual projects. This, in turn, enhances their ability to interact and collaborate effectively, while strengthening cross-disciplinary and interdisciplinary approaches to biomedical research.
The PhD Programme includes three curricula and each of these offers specific employment and professional opportunities.
MOLECULAR GENETICS APPLIED TO MEDICAL SCIENCES
In general, the curriculum in Molecular Genetics Applied to Medical Sciences focuses on the following areas of study:
- next-generation sequencing (NGS);
- RNA sequencing for Mendelian and complex diseases;
- comparative and functional genomics;
- epitranscriptomics;
- RNA editing; non-coding RNAs and epigenomics in the human genome;
- the use of animal models for the characterization of genes involved in the onset of genetic diseases;
- the use of patient-specific induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) for therapeutic approaches in rare genetic disorders.
BIOTECHNOLOGIES FOR HEALTH AND THE ENVIRONMENT
The curriculum in Biotechnology for Health and the Environment addresses the following research topics:
- food safety, nutraceuticals, and nutrigenomics;
- environmental factors in tumor development;
- soft tissue tumors;
- genes and proteins involved in iron homeostasis in neurodegenerative diseases;
- glycoconjugate metabolism;
- protein transport in different cellular systems and animal models;
- spectroscopy of proteins and biologically active molecules;
- cartilage and bone tissue regeneration in animal models.
MEDICAL-FORENSIC SCIENCES
The curriculum in Forensic Medical Sciences encompasses research on:
- forensic pathology;
- forensic genetics and toxicology.
These studies are conducted using state-of-the-art methodologies, including NGS, mass spectrometry, and short tandem repeat (STR) analysis on the X chromosome.