Could you give a few information about yourself and your scientific background, including previous studies and obtained degrees?

I am Beatrice Masciovecchio, and I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Biotechnology and a Master’s degree in Industrial Biotechnology both from the University of
Padua, Italy. During my final Master’s year, I carried out an Erasmus exchange at TU Dresden, attending courses of the Master’s degrees of Biochemistry, Materials Chemistry, Molecular Biosciences and Productive Biosystems.

Could you provide details about your scientific research, and previous projects, listing your key expertise and skills?

My master’s thesis project focused on the structural and biophysical characterization of human mitochondrial acyl-CoA dehydrogenases in the presence of ruthenium-based polyoxometalate compounds, aiming to explore their potential as innovative tools to aid Cryo-EM particle reconstruction. During this 1-year project I developed practical skills in a wide range of techniques such as bacterial transformation, plasmid DNA purification, recombinant protein expression, protein purification through chromatographic methods, SDS-PAGE, Western blotting, ITC and fluorescence activity assays and I also I acquired some hands-on experience on Cryo-EM data analysis.

What was the motivation for joining the AUREUS project?

Being part of a project that aims to counteract a pathogen of increasing concern by integrating multidisciplinary approaches is both exciting and meaningful to me. I am also highly motivated by the
opportunity to receive international training.

What is the motivation and aim of your PhD project?

My greatest aspiration is to conduct research that bridges fundamental molecular studies with real-world applications, ultimately contributing to advancements in human health. This project, aiming to study the recognition of S. aureus by specific human receptors, including C-type lectin receptors, holds the potential to provide deeper insights into the critical molecular motifs involved and thereby support the development of therapeutic strategies.

Could you write a few sentences about yourself, your hobbies, interests?

I am a cheerful and very sociable person. I love traveling, going for long walks, listening to music, dancing and reading.
I am naturally empathetic and value open and collaborative communication, which helps me working effectively with others while also being comfortable taking initiative on my own.