Research Lines for prospective PhD Students (Cohort 41: 2025-2028)

Research Line #: 1

Supervisor: Annachiara Cagnin

Potential Co-Supervisor/s: Diego Cecchin

Other potential Collaborators: TBD

Short abstract: To study new and combined surrogate markers of in vivo neuropathology in neurodegenerative diseases by using PET/MRI imaging and fluid biomarkers

Research Line #: 2

Supervisor: Diego Cecchin

Potential Co-Supervisor/s: Alessandra Bertoldo, Francesco Marchetti

Other potential Collaborators: TBD

Short abstract: New 3D-4D CZT SPET/CT systems allows sensitive 360 acquisition but the reconstruction is still far from being perfect. We need to explore the entire process of reconstruction from raw images to reconstruction and filtering.

Research Line #: 3

Supervisor: Antonino Vallesi

Potential Co-Supervisor/s: Simone Messerotti Benvenuti

Other potential Collaborators: Ettore Ambrosini, Arianna Menardi, Marco Bertamini

Short abstract: The evidence for neurofeedback effectiveness in enhancing higher cognitive functions is promising, though more rigor is needed. In a series of experimental studies, we will implement EEG-neurofeedback training with healthy young adults to regulate prefrontal activity including hemispheric asymmetries. For instance, we could use beta/alpha band modulations, linked to resting executive functions and compatible with natural prefrontal beta frequency. Participants will learn to regulate asymmetries before/while performing tasks associated with right or left prefrontal activity, expecting improved performance when the asymmetry aligns with literature-based directions. This approach has high potential for both basic research and rehabilitation.

Research Line #: 4

Supervisor: Antonino Vallesi

Potential Co-Supervisor/s: Arianna Menardi, Annachiara Cagnin

Other potential Collaborators: Samir Suweis, Maurizio Corbetta, Marco Zorzi, Alessandra Bertoldo, Fabio Sambataro

Short abstract: The relationship between brain connectivity and cognitive performance is essential for understanding how brain regions coordinate to support functions like memory, attention, and decision-making. In healthy individuals, optimal connectivity patterns enable efficient cognitive functioning. However, in pathological conditions, such as neurodegenerative diseases or psychiatric disorders, disrupted connectivity may impair cognitive abilities. Studying these changes provides insights into brain function and dysfunction, helping to better understand diagnosis and prognosis, and to develop targeted interventions aimed at improving cognitive performance, or at least at minimizing loss of function in case of neurodegeneration.

Research Line #: 5

Supervisor: Manfredo Atzori

Potential Co-Supervisor/s: TBD

Other potential Collaborators: TBD

Short abstract: This interdisciplinary project pioneers the development of the first foundation model for functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI) based on Self-Supervised Learning (SSL) and transformers, integrating connectomics to enhance understanding of brain activity and connectivity. The project will focus on creating robust models to improve disease diagnosis, prognosis, and cognitive function analysis. Employing transformers, known for their effectiveness in managing complex and high-dimensional data, the project will train using contrastive learning on publicly available, unlabeled fMRI scans.

Research Line #: 6

Supervisor: Paolo Meneguzzo

Potential Co-Supervisor/s: Elena Tenconi

Other potential Collaborators: TBD

Short abstract: This PhD project investigates neuropsychological changes associated with gender-affirming hormone therapy (GAHT) in transgender and gender-diverse (TGD) individuals. Employing a longitudinal design, the study evaluates executive functioning, impulsivity, emotional processing, and decision-making at baseline, 6, and 12 months after initiating GAHT. Correlations between neuropsychological outcomes and hormonal profiles will be examined. Results aim to advance personalized care by clarifying hormonal influences on cognition and emotional health, promoting tailored interventions to support TGD well-being.

Research Line #: 7

Supervisor: Paolo Meneguzzo

Potential Co-Supervisor/s: Elena Tenconi

Other potential Collaborators: Angela Favaro

Short abstract: This PhD project investigates autistic traits in individuals with eating disorders (EDs), focusing on clinical severity, neuropsychological functioning, and social cognition. Through a cross-sectional design, the study evaluates autistic symptomatology, ED psychopathology severity, executive functions, emotional processing, and theory of mind abilities. Correlations between autistic features, cognitive profiles, social cognition impairments, and clinical presentations are analyzed, considering potential gender biases in assessment tools. Findings aim to enhance diagnostic precision and inform targeted, personalized interventions for ED patients with autism spectrum characteristics.

Research Line #: 8

Supervisor: Giorgia Cona

Potential Co-Supervisor/s: Camillo Porcaro, Michele Allegra

Other potential Collaborators: Giovanni Mento, Angelo Antonini

Short abstract: Prospective Memory (PM) is the ability to remember to execute a define action in the proper moment of the future. Given its complexity, PM is mediated by a widespread number of brain regions, such as the anterior prefrontal cortex and the parietal regions. The first aim of this project is delineating what are the brain dynamics underlying PM, explored by means of EEG and TMS techniques. The second aim is studying the difference in the recruitment of brain networks from childhood to elderly. The third aim is exploring the PM in clinical population, especially in patients with Parkinson disease.

Research Line #: 9

Supervisor: Giorgia Cona

Potential Co-Supervisor/s: Enrico Collantoni, Angelo Antonini

Other potential Collaborators: Michele Allegra, Roberta Biundo

Short abstract: The aim of this project is exploring brain dynamics associated with time-related processes, such as delay discounting and mental time travel, by using EEG and brain stimulation techniques.
Furthermore, the project will explore how such processes change in clinical population, such as in patiens with anorexia or bulimia and patients with Parkinson’s disease.

Research Line #: 10

Supervisor: Simone Messerotti Benvenuti

Potential Co-Supervisor/s: Fabio Sambataro, Carola Dell’Acqua

Other potential Collaborators: TBD

Short abstract: Major depressive disorder (MDD) is among the world’s most widespread and burdensome conditions, with chronic and recurrent courses. For prevention efforts to succeed, it is necessary to identify people early, and ideally, before they become ill. To advance our understanding of MDD’s pathophysiological mechanisms, this research line investigates deficits in motivation for rewards – particularly social rewards – as a potential early risk marker. To achieve this aim, this project will leverage subjective, physiological (e.g., ERPs), and behavioral methods to disentangle social reward processing in populations at-risk for the development of MDD.

Research Line #: 11

Supervisor: Simone Messerotti Benvenuti

Potential Co-Supervisor/s: Antonino Vallesi, Carola Dell’Acqua

Other potential Collaborators: TBD

Short abstract: Reduced approach motivation, namely emotional disengagement from appetitive cues, plays a key role in the development of major depressive disorder (MDD). EEG-based neurofeedback targeting left frontal activity (FAA-NF), a region linked to approach motivation, may help enhance this process. However, FAA-NF has yet to be applied during exposure to appetitive stimuli, and its potential to modulate their processing remains unexplored. This research examines whether FAA-NF can enhance appetitive cue processing in individuals with depressive symptoms, as measured by event-related potentials (ERPs).

Research Line #: 12

Supervisor: Mario Bonato

Potential Co-Supervisor/s: Giorgia Cona

Other potential Collaborators: TBD

Short abstract: To what extent cognitive performance as measured in the lab is relevant for everyday life ? We will tackle this issue from a lifespan perspective, asking participants to systematically report the more challenging situations they encounter on daily basis.

Research Line #: 13

Supervisor: Mario Bonato

Potential Co-Supervisor/s: TBD

Other potential Collaborators: TBD

Short abstract: We will use digital testing in stroke and Parkinson’s patients in order to better understand how they process time, space and quantities, namely fundamental characteristics of our environment. Particular attention will be devoted to the link between digital testing and everyday life contexts and to the performance of age-matched controls.

Research Line #: 14

Supervisor: Elisa Di Rosa

Potential Co-Supervisor/s: Annachiara Cagnin

Other potential Collaborators: TBD

Short abstract: Adverse life events, depression and anxiety experienced during the lifetime represent significant risk factors not only for the development of psychopathological conditions such as late-life depression but also for cognitive decline and dementia. However, the exact mechanisms underlying this link is still not clear. Furthermore, coping, emotion regulation strategies and social support have been recently suggested as possible proxy of Affective Reserve (Di Rosa, 2024), which might represent a protective factor for the development of both depression and cognitive decline in older adults. The project will be aimed at gaining new knowledge in this field studying the relationship between affective and cognitive processes.

Research Line #: 15

Supervisor: Elisa Di Rosa

Potential Co-Supervisor/s: Antonino Vallesi

Other potential Collaborators: TBD

Short abstract: Tobacco use, alcohol consumption, and unhealthy diet are key contributors of preventable morbidity and early mortality worldwide (Global Burden of Disease Collaborative Network, 2021). Despite these behaviours have been linked to impaired executive functions, evidence is still scarce for what concerns key mechanisms of this link, such as the delay of gratification capacity. The project is aimed at gaining new knowledge in this field, defining the neural, cognitive and behavioural mechanisms underlying health behaviour, with a special focus on delay of gratification capacity.

Research Line #: 16

Supervisor: Alessandra Bertoldo

Potential Co-Supervisor/s: Maurizio Corbetta, Rupert Lanzenberger (Medical University of Vienna, Austria)

Other potential Collaborators: Valentin Ridle (TUM, Germany)

Short abstract: Converging research indicate that a deeper understanding of the human brain goes beyond merely analyzing pairwise functional relationships. The brain is a complex, nonlinear system, and focusing solely on linear pairwise connectivity may overlook important nonlinear and higher-order relationships. My research addresses the growing complexity of macroscale brain organization by integrating EEG-based, molecular (i.e., neurotransmission), and metabolic connectivity with functional and structural connectomes. This multifaceted approach enriches our understanding of brain behavior and cognition. Ultimately, unifying these connectomes in a single modeling framework is fundamental to capturing the brain’s overall behavior.

Research Line #: 17

Supervisor: Alessandra Bertoldo

Potential Co-Supervisor/s: Manu S. Goyal (Washington University, USA), Andrei G. Vlassenko (Washington University, USA)

Other potential collaborators: John C. Morris (Washington University, USA)

Short abstract: Alzheimer disease is a neurodegenerative disorder marked by cognitive decline, metabolic brain alterations, and beta-amyloid/tau accumulation. Recently, therapies targeting beta-amyloid plaques during early symptomatic AD have shown modest efficacy. Alternative approaches focus on brain metabolism and neuronal activity. Our preliminary results suggest early AD’s relationship with glucose metabolism is more complex than assumed. Fully characterizing these findings should clarify how these aspects relate to neurodegeneration, including tauopathy. The data have been acquired—including a novel PET database with multiple tracers—and are ready for further steps.

Research Line #: 18

Supervisor: Elisabetta Patron

Potential Co-Supervisor/s: Antonino Vallesi

Other potential Collaborators: TBD

Short abstract: A novel integrated approach is crucial for exploring the intricate interplay between the brain and body. This research line focuses on investigating the complex interactions among neural processes, physiological responses (e.g., cardiac, gastric), exploiting novel indexes such as the brain-heart interplay index. By incorporating advanced bio- and neurofeedback techniques, we can obtain real-time insights into brain-body communication patterns. Through this innovative methodology, which includes analyzing metrics such as heart rate variability in relation to neural oscillations, the ultimate goal of this project is to unravel the mechanisms that contribute to the development of psychopathological disorders and chronic diseases.

Research Line #: 19

Supervisor: Fabio Sambataro

Potential Co-Supervisor/s: Giuseppe Blasi

Other potential Collaborators: TBD

Short abstract: Bipolar disorder (BD) is highly heritable, with genetic factors accounting for approximately 70-85% of the risk. Neuroimaging studies suggest that this genetic predisposition influences brain structure and function, particularly in regions involved in mood regulation. Twin and family studies show that first-degree relatives of BD patients exhibit similar neuroimaging abnormalities, even without clinical symptoms, highlighting their potential as endophenotypes. Genetic variations, including polygenic risk scores, have been linked to alterations in white matter integrity and functional connectivity, providing insights into BD’s neurobiological underpinnings.

Research Line #: 20

Supervisor: Aram Megighian

Potential Co-Supervisor/s: Marco Dal Maschio, Maria Elena Miletto Petrazzini

Other potential Collaborators: David Baracchi

Short abstract: Adaptive behavior is the set of coordinated actions generated by the nervous system (NS) in response to environmental or internal stimuli, chosen among the most rewarding responses through the actual and former experience through decision-making. Visuomotor-responses (VMR) are critical for any organism fitness and are already present in animals evolutionarily distant from humans.
We analyse different processes regulating adaptive behavior by investigating VMR in D. melanogaster using quantitative behavior analyses, neurophysiology and calcium imaging, combined with genetic and molecular techniques.
Our aim is to investigate the neurobiological basis of said processes, linking the circuit to the behavior in a multiscale approach.

Research Line #: 21

Supervisor: Maurizio Corbetta

Potential Co-Supervisor/s: Manuela Allegra

Other potential Collaborators: Lorenzo Pini, Alessandro Salvalaggio

Short abstract: This research line focuses on the effect of focal lesions (stroke, tumors) on the brain connectome studied with multi-modal imaging. We will develop individual and group level fingerprints of connectomics dysfunction that predict behavior and long-term outcome. In addition, we will study the correlative and causal neurophysiological mechanisms using high density EEG and TMS-EEG. A final goal of the project is to develop novel treatments based on the connecomics insight offered by the above studies.

Research Line #: 22

Supervisor: Maurizio Corbetta

Potential Co-Supervisor/s: Michele Allegra, Lorenzo Pini

Other potential Collaborators: Manuela Allegra, Andrea Zangrossi, Ilaria Mazzonetto

Short abstract: This line of research focuses on the fundamental question of “what is spontaneous activity (SA) for?”. We are testing predictions of a theory of SA developed by our group (Pezzulo et al. TICS 2021). Accordingly SA is a generative model of the body, environment, and cognitive function representing dynamically the most common and behavioral relevant variables in each domain. We are carrying out numerous studies using both fMRI and HD-EEG testing this idea in the visual and motor domain, as well as in patients with focal lesions. In parallel we are carrying our animal studies using calcium imaging and optogenetics to test some of the same ideas. Parallel computational studies are trying to provide formal insight on these relationships.

Research Line #: 23

Supervisor: Marco Dal Maschio

Potential Co-Supervisor/s: Aram Megighian, Maria Elena Miletto Petrazzini

Other potential Collaborators: Nicola Facchinello

Short abstract: Coping with a continously changing environment calls for learning or updating the organism action-percpetion schemes. These type of primitives are considered the basis for the optimal processing of the sensoty inputs and at the same time the support for informing the motor program selection and execution. We will use visuo-motor processessing in Zebrafish larvae to investigate these mechanisms combining functional imaging, behavior tracking and targeted neuronal modulation. The ojective is to characterize the neuronal circuits involved and their role with the visuomotor adaptation mechanism as well as their alterations in genetic models of neurodevelopmental disorders.

Research Line #: 24

Supervisor: Emanuela Formaggio

Potential Co-Supervisor/s: Maria Rubega

Other potential Collaborators: Paola Contessa (AOPD), Michela Agostini

Short abstract: Due to higher life expectancy the age and population structure in Europe will change. Therefore, research furthering lifelong health, active ageing and well-being for all will be a cornerstone of the successful adaptation of societies to demographic change. This project goal is to identify the most effective strategy to enhance gait and balance in the elderly (people aged > 65 y). Gait and balance will be assessed through wearable sensors (i.e., electromyography, inertial measurement units and electroencephalography) during static and dynamic tasks. This project involves a multidisciplinary team of physiatrists, physiotherapists, neuropsychologists and bioengineers (specialized in advanced biological signal processing and in biomechanics).

Research Line #: 25

Supervisor: Emanuela Formaggio

Potential Co-Supervisor/s: Edoardo Passarotto

Other potential Collaborators: TBD

Short abstract: Healthy aging is one of the greatest challenges of our time, and it is important to identify cost-effective activities to counteract cognitive decline. Meta-analyses suggest that listening to music can improve health, well-being, and cognitive function in older adults. However, results are inconsistent and the process by which music affects cognitive function is largely unexplained. This project aims to identify aspects of music that improve cognitive performance in older adults and to develop personalized music listening interventions to counteract cognitive decline based on electroencephalography (EEG) activity. Effectiveness will be evaluated on behavioral and EEG parameters.

Research Line #: 26

Supervisor: Stefano Masiero

Potential Co-Supervisor/s: Maria Rubega, Emanuela Formaggio

Other potential Collaborators: Paola Contessa (AOPD)

Short abstract: The pathophysiology of Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis (AIS) is not yet completely understood, but multi-factorial hypotheses have been proposed including defective central nervous system control of posture, biomechanics alterations and alterations of body schema. AIS could be the expression of a sub-clinical nervous system disorder. The aim of our study was to compare the electroencephalography activity in adolescents with AIS and controls, to examine the brain oscillatory changes related to balance control and inquire possibly related body schema representational alterations. Results may represent a valuable biomarker of AIS disease progression and offers novel therapeutic targets according to the identified pathophysiological patterns.

Research Line #: 27

Supervisor: Samir Simon Suweis

Potential Co-Supervisor/s: Marco Zorzi, Alessandra Bertoldo

Other potential Collaborators: Michele Allegra

Short abstract: This project aims to construct biophysically grounded whole-brain models through the integration of multi-modal neuroimaging data, including resting-state fMRI, dMRI, and electrophysiology. Using tools from dynamical systems theory and statistical inference, we will investigate how structural connectivity shapes spatio-temporal neural activity in health and pathological conditions. The goal is to identify dynamical regimes, bifurcations, and markers of functional breakdown, offering a principled framework to interpret empirical data through model-based insights.

Research Line #: 28

Supervisor: Samir Simon Suweis

Potential Co-Supervisor/s: Michele Allegra, Maurizio Corbetta

Other potential Collaborators: Lorenzo Pini

Short abstract: Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) offers a powerful window into brain causality, yet predicting its effects remains a major challenge. This project aims to develop whole-brain models capable of forecasting TMS-evoked neural responses based on resting-state dynamics. By integrating structural and functional connectivity with dynamical systems theory, we seek to infer the brain’s local excitability landscape and propagation patterns. The goal is to bridge spontaneous and evoked activity, advancing both mechanistic insight and the predictive power of non-invasive stimulation in health and disease.

Research Line #: 29

Supervisor: Mario Liotti

Potential Co-Supervisor/s: Simone Cutini

Other potential Collaborators: Antonino Vallesi

Short abstract: People with severe anxiety present difficulties in executive functions that affect quality of life. The present project will compare EEG and fNIRS measures of regional activity and functional connectivity at rest and in a cognitive control task with emotional distractors in groups of participants with high or low trait anxiety, to confirm correlates of high trait anxiety involving the frontoparietal and cingulo-opercular networks. Second aim is to perform a randomized controlled trial and a follow-up study to test the short-term efficacy of Beta tACS in alleviating anxiety symptoms and influencing the frontoparietal and cingulo-opercular networks. The third objective is to evaluate the long-term efficacy of neurostimulation treatment.

Research Line #: 30

Supervisor: Roberta Biundo

Potential Co-Supervisor/s: Erika Borella

Other potential Collaborators: TBD

Short abstract: Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder affecting motor and non-motor functions. As the global population ages, the prevalence of PD is expected to rise, necessitating innovative rehabilitation approaches. While novel technologies are being developed to manage PD cognitive impairment (CI), their success rates vary. Variables affecting intervention effectiveness are unknown. The focus of the project is to understand the role of biomarkers profile (blood/CSF/neuroimaging), the cognitive and clinical phenotypes, into the differential effect of cognitive treatment efficacy, contributing to the development of personalized rehabilitation strategies. The role of cognitive reserve will be also investigated.

Research Line #: 31

Supervisor: Alessandra Del Felice

Potential Co-Supervisor/s: Manfredo Atzori

Other potential Collaborators: TBD

Short abstract: Motor recovery after stroke is still unsatisfactory. In fact, it relies mainly on qualitative measures (i.e., clinical scales), which provide only a partial prospective of the complex reorganization trajectories of motor performance during recovery. Quantitative assessment is mandatory and may inform rehabilitative pathways. The project aims to develop an innovative method to classify motor impairments by decomposing complex movements into functional modules (motor primitives). This will be possible by combining machine learning techniques with advanced Inertial Measurement Units (IMUs) and electromyographic (EMG) analysis. Eventually, this approach will be employed to phenotype post-stroke impairment, with critical clinical perspectives.

Research Line #: 32

Supervisor: Alessandra Del Felice

Potential Co-Supervisor/s: Emanuele Menegatti

Other potential Collaborators: TBD

Short abstract: TBD

Research Line #: 33

Supervisor: Camillo Porcaro

Potential Co-Supervisor/s: Maurizio Corbetta

Other potential Collaborators: Angelo Antonini

Short abstract: The world’s population is ageing rapidly, but quality of life matters as much as longevity. Rather than just treating symptoms of diseases like dementia or Parkinson’s, we focus on maintaining brain health to improve outcomes.

Our project combines MEG/EEG and mathematics to model healthy ageing and track changes in those with poor brain health. These models will guide experiments to explore how brain health can be preserved longer.

By uncovering ways to slow age-related brain changes, we aim to enhance quality of life and productivity — crucial in ageing societies with declining birth rates.

Research Line #: 34

Supervisor: Camillo Porcaro

Potential Co-Supervisor/s: Angelo Antonini

Other potential Collaborators: Maurizio Corbetta

Short abstract: Identify robust markers to characterize imbalances in pathological intrinsic brain activity (IBA).

Traditionally, brain function is studied through responses to external stimuli, but most brain energy supports intrinsic activity. We hypothesize that IBA maintains balance among brain networks, operating near criticality—a state enabling optimal adaptability and information processing. Using nonlinear chaos theory, like fractal analysis, we aim to define a physiological baseline for transient changes in perception and cognition. This will clarify IBA’s role in brain balance, aiding the understanding of both healthy and pathological conditions.

Research Line #: 35

Supervisor: Angelo Antonini

Potential Co-Supervisor/s: Roberta Biundo, Marta Campagnolo

Other potential Collaborators: Aron Emmi

Short abstract: Establishing a clear correlation between clinical phenotypes and underlying neuropathology in neurodegenerative diseases remains a significant challenge. A single neuropathological entity can present with diverse clinical syndromes, making accurate diagnosis based solely on clinical features difficult. This challenge is further compounded by symptom overlap among different neurodegenerative diseases, such as tauopathies, Alzheimer’s disease, and Parkinson disease. This PhD will address the need for improved cognitive, imaging and neuropshsilogical biomarkers to enhance the accuracy of in vivo classification of neurodegenerative diseases.

Research Line #: 36

Supervisor: Angelo Antonini

Potential Co-Supervisor/s: Roberta Biundo, Andrea Landi

Other potential Collaborators: Andrea Guerra

Short abstract: Understanding the neural mechanisms of motivation and its dysfunction remains challenging, particularly in identifying specific biomarkers for symptoms, neuropsychiatric features, and cognitive sub-processes. Evidence suggests distinct spatio-spectral networks underlie dissociable functions, but single-site local field potential (LFP) recordings may capture overlapping neuronal activity. This project will use multi-site (cortical and subcortical) LFP recordings to investigate network dynamics in Parkinson’s disease. By integrating neurophysiological and computational approaches, this research aims to improve biomarker specificity and advance our understanding of motivation-related neural circuits.

Research Line #: 37

Supervisor: Enrico Collantoni

Potential Co-Supervisor/s: Antonino Vallesi, Arianna Menardi

Other potential Collaborators: TBD

Short abstract: Anorexia Nervosa is a severe and often treatment-resistant psychiatric disorder. This project investigates the effects of non-invasive brain stimulation targeting parietal circuits involved in body representation and cognitive control. Through a randomized trial and multimodal assessment, the project will explore clinical efficacy, underlying neurocognitive mechanisms, and predictors of treatment response. Ultimately, it aims to identify neurobiological and behavioral markers to inform personalized interventions and deepen our understanding of AN pathophysiology.

Research Line #: 38

Supervisor: Enrico Collantoni

Potential Co-Supervisor/s: Angela Favaro, Valentina Cardi

Other potential Collaborators: Andrea Serino (University of Lausanne, Switzerland)

Short abstract: Disturbances in body perception are core features of eating and weight disorders. This project aims to investigate the neural and computational mechanisms underlying these alterations through the lens of predictive coding and multisensory integration. By employing experimental paradigms based on virtual reality and inducing visuotactile and visuo-interoceptive conflicts, the project will examine how sensory inputs are weighted and integrated to generate a coherent sense of the body. Behavioral, neuroimaging, and molecular data will be combined with computational modeling to characterize altered predictive processes and their clinical relevance across the spectrum of these conditions.

Research Line #: 39

Supervisor: Miryam Carecchio

Potential Co-Supervisor/s: Renzo Manara

Other potential Collaborators: TBD

Short abstract: PFBC (Primary Familial Brain Calcification) is a genetic disorder featuring bilateral calcium deposition in basal ganglia and other cerebral areas. Brain MRI has rarely been used to detect calcium deposition and no correlations between patients’ genetics, clinical and radiological features are known. Aims of this project are: 1) to define the MRI radiological profile including cortical thickness of PFBC patients; 2) to correlate radiological, clinical and genetic findings to provide prognostic factors to predict the disease trajectory. Patients will undergo a 3.0 T MRI scan with T1, FLAIR, and SWI sequences. Genetic tests, clinical and neuropsychological scales will be performed to correlate radiological features with clinical outcomes.

Research Line #: 40

Supervisor: Marco Mainardi

Potential Co-Supervisor/s: Manuela Allegra

Other potential Collaborators: TBD

Short abstract: Synaptic plasticity is a cornerstone of nervous system development during development and adulthood, supporting the fine-tuning of neural circuits in response to experience. Isolating the key molecular orchestrators of synaptic plasticity is a fundamental goal in both basic and translational research.
Here, custom-made genetically encoded proteomics probes will be expressed in healthy mice and in transgenic models of neurodevelopmental diseases via adeno associated viral (AAV) vectors to characterize the synaptic proteome. Then, the impact of manipulating the expression of selected candidate proteins will be analyzed using behavioral testing and electrophysiology to identify potential druggable targets.

Research Line #: 41

Supervisor: Mario Bortolozzi

Potential Co-Supervisor/s: Marco Dal Maschio, Angelo Antonini

Other potential Collaborators: Jens Schwamborn (Luxembourg University)

Short abstract: Perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a large group of synthetic chemicals widely used in everyday products. Once ingested or inhaled, they accumulate in different organs, increasing the risk of cancer as well as neurological and reproductive disorders. In 2018, the Council of Ministers declared a state of emergency due to PFAS contamination in Vicenza, Verona, and Padua. Our 2022 study (Di Nisio et al., Env Int) was the first to demonstrate that PFAS alter human dopaminergic neuron development. This PhD project, conducted at the Veneto Institute of Molecular Medicine (VIMM, Padova), will further investigate PFAS effects using a 3D brain organoid model, applying advanced imaging and electrophysiological techniques.

Research Line #: 42

Supervisor: Mario Bortolozzi

Potential Co-Supervisor/s: Marco dal Maschio, Filippo Pisano

Other potential Collaborators: Vladimir Khorkov (ETH Zurich, Switzerland)

Short abstract: Discovered in 1993, the X-linked form of Charcot–Marie–Tooth disease (CMT1X) is the second most common genetic peripheral neuropathy. Caused by mutations in the GJB1 gene encoding connexin 32 (Cx32), its molecular mechanisms remain unclear, hindering personalized treatments based on genetic diagnosis. This PhD project aims to (i) show that ATP release dysfunction in Cx32 hemichannels drives CMT1X pathogenesis and (ii) develop in vitro assays to test potential therapies for various CMT1X mutations. The selected candidate will work at the Veneto Institute of Molecular Medicine (VIMM, Padua), benefiting from state-of-the-art biological and biophysical facilities.

Research Line #: 43

Supervisor: Judit Gervain

Potential Co-Supervisor/s: Silvia Benavides Varela

Other potential Collaborators: TBD

Short abstract: Infants learn language with surprising ease. How they perceive the speech input they receive plays an important role in scaffolding language development. The current line of research investigates the neural mechanisms underlying newborns and young infants’ speech perception abilities and how they contribute to learning language.

Research Line #: 44

Supervisor: Judit Gervain

Potential Co-Supervisor/s: Samir Simon Suweis, Ramon Guevara

Other potential Collaborators: TBD

Short abstract: Language acquisition is a par excellence critical period phenomenon: young infants learning language with ease, while adults need to make efforts, and typically do not achieve native-like competence. The underlying neural mechanisms of the reduction of neuroplasticity for speech perception and language acquisition are only now beginning to be understood. This line of research explore these mechanisms in young infants using state-of-the-art neuroimaging and models them using dynamical systems theory.