Scientific Researcher at University of Pisa (2025-01 – Present)
- Optimised metabarcoding methodologies for parasite biodiversity assessment objectives
- Delivered high-throughput sample processing for sequencing
- Established in-house laboratory infrastructure, workflows, and expertise in metabarcoding, enabling independent sample processing within a multi-partner project
Marie Skłodowska-Curie Postdoctoral Fellow at Fondazione Edmund Mach (2023-01 – 2025-12)
- Secured funding to lead an independent research project, managing objectives, activities, and budget
- Implemented non-invasive (eDNA) approaches to assess endangered amphibian and pathogen diversity across environmental gradients
- Integrated multi-source and multi-scale datasets (microbiota, genetic, environmental) to analyse host–pathogen–environment interactions in degraded and recovering ecosystems
- Coordinated an international network (8 countries) to develop a sample and data repository, implemented as a FAIR-compliant SQL database
- Communicated findings to conservation NGOs, informing improved field practices and disease monitoring
Postdoctoral Researcher at Wageningen University & Research (2021-01 – 2023-12)
- Adapted molecular detection methods to novel sample types (ear tissue) to detect tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV) in wildlife using non-destructive sampling approaches
- Demonstrated circulation of TBEV across a broader habitat range than previously recognised through integrated ecological and molecular analyses
- Contributed to an interdisciplinary research project at the chemistry–ecology interface, resulting in a Nature Chemistry publication and university award
- Collaborated with the Dutch National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM) to support national TBEV surveillance and risk assessment
- Contributed to evidence underpinning the introduction of mandatory Category C reporting for TBE in the Netherlands
Postdoctoral Researcher at University of California Davis (2017-01 – 2021-12)
- Investigated ecological and social drivers of pathogen circulation (with a focus on degraded and recovering ecosystems) through integrated analyses of field, laboratory and environmental data
- Applied statistical and spatial analyses (e.g., species distribution and mixed-effects modelling) to identify host–vector–pathogen interactions across space and time, including under projected climate change
- Derived satellite-based indices to quantify environmental changes (e.g., following wildfire) and subsequent impacts on pathogen systems
- Collaborated with state and federal public health authorities to support vector-borne disease surveillance and risk assessment
