Serena Diazzi

– Led the functional validation of metastasis-associated candidate genes in human melanoma cell lines and patient-derived samples, emerging from a high-throughput genetic screen I developed during an earlier project phase

– Designed and executed experimental strategies to evaluate candidate impact on cell migration, invasion, and tumorigenic potential, supporting the identification of novel therapeutic targets

– Managed the project lifecycle, including protocol development, data generation, analysis, and strategic interpretation in a translational oncology setting
– Authored a scientific manuscript and contributed to abstracts and presentations for international oncology congresses, demonstrating strong scientific writing and communication skills
– Facilitated cross-functional communication and result dissemination within multidisciplinary teams, aligning scientific insight with broader research and clinical goals

– Actively engaged in science communication and public outreach, presenting complex research findings in accessible formats for non-specialist audiences

– Designed and conducted an in vivo genetic screening to identify novel regulators of melanoma metastasis, with the goal of uncovering new therapeutic targets for improved patient care

– Optimized experimental protocols and managed the generation and analysis of complex in vivo datasets in a translational context

– Mentored and trained laboratory technicians, ensuring adherence to experimental standards and project timelines

-Analyzed research data to identify trends, contributing to strategic decisions in ongoing projects
– Continuously monitored the clinical landscape of melanoma treatment, integrating insights from recent trials and guidelines to align research with current and emerging therapeutic strategies
– Authored peer-reviewed scientific reviews on melanoma and non-epithelial tumor metastasis, contributing to knowledge dissemination and strategic positioning of therapeutic opportunities
– Communicated scientific outcomes across internal and external forums, supporting cross-functional collaboration and visibility of the project within the oncology community

-Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to develop innovative solutions for complex cancer research challenges.

– Successfully secured competitive research funding to support laboratory projects, demonstrating strategic planning and the ability to align scientific proposals with funding priorities

– Conducted preclinical validation studies to assess the therapeutic efficacy of drug combinations developed during my PhD, targeting resistance mechanisms in melanoma
– Contributed to the development of a patent on the use of targeted therapies in combination with antifibrotic agents for the clinical management of patients with therapy-resistant melanoma
– Supported translational efforts by bridging preclinical research findings with clinical applicability, emphasizing treatment strategies aimed at overcoming resistance
– Strengthened cross-functional collaboration and scientific communication skills in a multidisciplinary, result-oriented environment

– Developed and independently managed a translational research project focused on identifying novel molecular targets to overcome resistance to targeted therapies in melanoma
– Co-authored multiple peer-reviewed publications, contributing both to the core PhD project and to collaborative studies within the research team
– Presented original research findings at several international oncology conferences, earning awards for best presentation and demonstrating strong scientific communication skills