Lab Experience at the University of Cambridge – Simone Laguardia

My Research Experience at the University of Cambridge

Hello to everyone, I’m Simone Laguardia, a medical student in the Virgilio Program (6th cohort) at the University of Milano-Bicocca. Recently, I had the extraordinary opportunity to conduct research at the Clinical Research Laboratory of Cambridge University, within the Department of Anesthesia at Addenbrooke’s Hospital. Under the mentorship of Dr. Virginia Newcombe, MD, PhD, I immersed myself in studying traumatic brain injury, collaborating with leading experts in neuro traumatology experience was an academic challenge but also a formative personal journey.

Arriving in Cambridge, I was immediately captivated by the city’s rich history and dynamic academic atmosphere. Contrary to its rainy reputation, the weather was surprisingly pleasant, and I met an incredibly welcoming community. Yet, despite the charm of my surroundings, I initially felt a sense of solitude—a natural reaction to stepping into such a specialized and prestigious research environment. Professor David Menon’s words on my first day resonated with me: “No one is wise alone.” That sentiment would prove true throughout my stay.

My introduction to Cambridge was marked by an amusing misadventure. Mistakenly believing the welcome event was at King’s College, I confidently made my way there, only to realize it was held in a music pub. What could have been an embarrassing mix-up turned into an impromptu tour of some of Cambridge’s most iconic landmarks. Fortunately, I soon met my colleagues from the Mario Negri Institute, whose familiar faces provided a reassuring bridge between my old and new academic worlds.

During my research experience, I contributed to two main projects that deepened my understanding of TBI and its clinical management. The first focused on a meta-analysis of mild traumatic brain injury, where I worked on extracting and analyzing data from 40 studies to identify inconsistencies in research findings. One of the most striking challenges was the lack of a standardized definition for mild TBI, leading to variations in study outcomes. This experience honed my ability to critically evaluate scientific literature and conduct meta-analyses, skills that are invaluable in evidence-based medicine.

The second project examined clinical guidelines for TBI management, particularly for mild cases. Using the Trip Medical Database, I conducted structured searches and analyzed 49 key guidelines, later refining them through secondary reviews. This work underscored the crucial role of standardized protocols in improving patient outcomes and ensuring consistency in clinical decision-making.

A noteworthy moment in Cambridge was attending the International Neurotrauma Society Meeting 2024. The conference offered a deep dive into groundbreaking advancements in TBI research. Topics ranged from the integration of biomarkers like GFAP, UCHL1, and NFL to the role of diffusion tensor imaging in predicting recovery after TBI. A particularly compelling keynote, Time is Spine—Recovery from Spinal Cord Injury, emphasized how early surgical intervention can significantly improve patient outcomes, reinforcing the urgency of timely medical response in neurotrauma cases.

Beyond the structured research and conferences, what truly enriched my experience were the conversations I had with fellow researchers. Some of the most thought-provoking moments took place outside the lab, in places like the Novi pub, where I had a memorable discussion with Dr. Elisa Zanier about Klara and the Sun by Kazuo Ishiguro. “Training students to execute methods is valuable, but inspiring their curiosity is impactful,” she remarked—words that left a lasting impression on me. Other discussions ranged from the meaning of the word “neuroscientist” to the neurological effects of COVID-19, and even the unconventional career paths that led some researchers to Cambridge.

Looking back, my research experience at Cambridge has been transformative in more ways than I could have anticipated. Beyond the scientific knowledge I gained, it deepened my appreciation for collaboration, intellectual curiosity, and the power of mentorship. Attending the INTS 2024 conference and engaging with experts from diverse backgrounds reinforced my passion for neuroscience and clinical research.

As I return to my studies at Milano-Bicocca, I carry with me not only new skills and insights but also a network of inspiring colleagues and mentors. This journey has only just begun, and I look forward to continuing my exploration of TBI and contributing to advancements in neurotrauma research.