My lab experience at lab of Hematology in Policlinico of Milan – Anna Brozzoni

I got the opportunity to do my 2nd lab rotation at the lab of Hematology in Policlinico of Milan

PI of the laboratory: Prof. Niccolò Bolli

Tutor: Dr. Francesca Lazzaroni

The lab focuses on hematological diseases such as multiple myeloma and myelofibrosis.

My experience & learnings:

During my experience, I was introduced to a type of laboratory work I had never encountered before, focused on computational data analysis. I learned how to use software such as RStudio and began to understand the reasoning behind these analyses. I also learned and observed the procedure for isolating mononuclear cells.

In particular, we analyzed CALR expression in megakaryocytes from samples from patients with myelofibrosis at different timepoints. The aim was to determine whether the treatment is effective or not, and what changes occur in terms of cell populations before and after treatment.

It was fascinating to understand how computer science and biological research are interconnected.

A particularly meaningful moment was attending a conference on multiple myeloma, where international experts shared the latest advancements in research. It was inspiring to see how rapidly the field is evolving.

Thanks to the support of the lab PI prof. Bolli, my tutor, Francesca Lazzaroni, and the team members who guided me, Emanuele and Filippo, I was able to independently analyze and describe data and graphs, an experience that I found both challenging and deeply rewarding.

I would like to express my gratitude to the Virgilio Program for this opportunity. It has shaped me both scientifically, through the knowledge I gained in RStudio, multiple myeloma, and myelofibrosis, and personally, by allowing me to experience firsthand how work is conducted in a dry lab.