by InTrieste
In a remarkable testament to the power of innovation and academic excellence, the University of Trieste recently honored five exceptional PhD graduates with its prestigious PhD Innovation Award. Each recipient was recognized for their groundbreaking research, receiving €3,000 as part of the accolade.
Among the winners is Paola Tesolin, a PhD graduate in reproductive sciences, whose discovery of a molecule could provide hope for thousands predisposed to hearing loss after age 65. Her work, which addresses a growing public health concern, exemplifies the transformative potential of academic research.
Other awardees include Silvia Mauri and Beatrice Bartolomei from the Nanotechnology PhD program, Luca Grisetti from the Molecular Biomedicine program, and Francesco Armillotta from the Physics program. Their collective contributions span disciplines, underscoring the university’s commitment to fostering diverse innovation.
The awards, part of the University of Trieste’s centennial celebrations, highlight the institution’s enduring legacy as a hub of intellectual progress. However, their future remains uncertain. In the wake of recent budget cuts, Rector Roberto Di Lenarda expressed concern about securing the necessary funds to sustain the initiative. “Recognizing young researchers is vital to encouraging the breakthroughs of tomorrow,” he stated.
As the university grapples with financial challenges, the PhD Innovation Award serves as a poignant reminder of the critical role of higher education in advancing society and tackling global challenges.
Interview: Rector Roberto Di Lenarda
