Traditionally, the development of medical and pharmacological therapies has relied on a “one-size-fits-all” model designed for the average patient, often overlooking individual variability. Precision Medicine represents a paradigm shift: it places the individual and the unique features of their disease at the centre, with the goal of identifying the most effective treatments based on molecular and clinical profile of single patient. This approach has already revolutionized oncology, where tumors are now classified not only by tissue of origin but also by their genetic and molecular features.
The PhD Course in Precision Medicine offers a highly inter, transdisciplinary and innovative training pathway that integrates theoretical, practical, and experimental activities across the entire curriculum. The course is designed to prepare researchers capable of addressing the challenges of future medicine through a solid scientific and technological skills, combined with an ethical and global vision of research.
The course promotes high-impact research projects in oncology, immunology, chemistry, genetics, neuroscience and pharmacology, encompassing both basic and clinical research.
Main topics include:
- Bioinformatics and biomedical data science
- “Omics” sciences (genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, metabolomics, interactomics)
- Biomarker identification and personalized drug development
- Molecular mechanisms of disease
- Innovative preclinical models and advanced diagnostic technologies
Doctoral candidates will gain hands-on experience with state-of-the-art methodologies, including:
- In vitro and in vivo imaging technologies
- Next Generation Sequencing (NGS)
- Proteomics and nanotechnologies
- Interactomics and cell diagnostics
- Innovative animal models (e.g., zebrafish)
The programme combines scientific depth with structured , multidisciplinary training,. Each year candidates attend:
- 3–4 annual courses and 10–12 seminars (approx. 48 hours/year), delivered in English by faculty members and invited national and international experts
- Courses on emerging topics such as nanotechnologies applied to pharmacology and complex diseases (oncological, genetic, and neurodegenerative)
- Active involvement of doctoral students in selecting and organizing technological courses
In addition to scientific expertise, the programme emphasizes transferable skills such as:
- Communication and public speaking
- Research dissemination and science outreach
- Scientific writing (grant proposals and publications)
- Intellectual property, patents, and entrepreneurship
- Collaboration with industry and other stakeholders
International mobility is strongly encouraged. Doctoral students have the opportunity to carry out part of their research in Centres of Excellence in Italy and abroad, building global scientific networks and fostering cross-sector collaborations.
Doctoral candidates will participate in:
- Summer schools, workshops, and theoretical–practical courses at national and international level
- Journal Clubs in English, organized and led by students to foster critical discussion and interdisciplinary exchange
- Courses on gender issues and research ethics
All teaching and communication activities are conducted entirely in English. Courses take place primarily in person, with the option of online participation for students engaged in research abroad. The international environment promotes both academic excellence and professional development.