Congratulations to Federica Falconio on winning the 'Italy Made Me' award!

Many congratulations to Federica Alice Falconio on winning the ‘Italy Made Me’ award from the Italian Embassy.

The Italy Made Me Award is an initiative by the Italian Embassy in the UK that celebrates and recognizes the achievements of Italian researchers who have pursued higher education in Italy and then established academic or research careers in the UK. The award highlights the contributions of Italian researchers to the global scientific and academic communities, covering multiple disciplines. Winners are chosen primarily based on the quality and significance of the research they present. The winners are also recognised in a formal ceremony at the Italian Embassy.

Federica has recently completed a PhD in Giorgio Gilestro Lab, We caught up with her to learn more about her work, the award and her plans for the future!

Can you tell us about your journey to study at Imperial?

My academic journey began at Sapienza University of Rome, where I earned my Bachelor's degree in Biotechnology and later pursued a Master's in Genetics and Molecular Biology.

During this time, I gained significant hands-on experience in the wet lab while working in Laura Ciapponi's lab. It was there that I discovered my passion for neuroscience, as we focused on dissecting Myotonic Dystrophy type 2, a neurodegenerative disease. I was deeply invested in the project and the vibrant lab environment, so much so that my initial plan was to continue there for my PhD. However, an unexpected opportunity arose: I was invited for an interview at the University of Cambridge for a research assistant position in Greg Hannon’s lab at Cancer Research UK. What started as a six-month period turned into an incredible experience of nearly a year and a half! It was my first time living abroad, and it was both professionally and personally transformative.

Inspired by this experience, I decided to pursue my PhD in the UK as well. I was fortunate to receive two prestigious scholarships: one from the University of Leicester and another from Imperial through the President's Scholarship. Ultimately, London called, and I joined Giorgio Gilestro's lab at Imperial, returning to my passion for neuroscience. Here, I’ve been studying sleep using Drosophila melanogaster. Being at Imperial has been an amazing experience. The lab has been a fantastic environment—friendly and collaborative. Beyond the research, life at Imperial is enriched by a multitude of activities, from social events and gym facilities to the vibrant Union. I will carry the lessons and memories from this journey with me and will undoubtedly miss this incredible place.

Can you tell us a bit about your PhD research?

In my lab we study sleep using Drosophila melanogaster as a model system, the commonly known “fruit fly”. We probably all know how important is sleep, but despite its conservation in evolution, the precise purpose of sleep remains shrouded in mystery.

During my PhD, I have examined sleep at different levels. In the main part of this work, I combined a range of transcriptomics and immunostaining experiments, to analyze how gene expression changes in the brain upon acute and chronic sleep deprivation (SD) and found a role for histone methylases in regulating sleep-specific changes in gene expression. Prolonged SD leads to an overall decrease in gene expression driven by inhibitory histone methylation activity (H3K9) in the brain. The specific removal of H3K9 methylases, such as Su(var)3-9 or G9a, in neurons, interferes with this process, blocking sleep-specific changes in gene expression and canceling the fly’s internal homeostatic control of sleep. The results of this research may have significant implications for the field of sleep science and broader societal impacts.

This knowledge could pave the way for new therapeutic targets for sleep disorders, improving the quality of restorative sleep for individuals affected by such conditions, as it may help in generating biomarkers that can be associated for instance, with prolonged-forced wakefulness and sensitivity to sleep loss.

What are your future plans?

After completing my PhD, I’ve decided to explore opportunities outside academia. Recently, I was thrilled to accept a position as an Associate Field Applications Scientist. Although this role is new to me, I’m incredibly excited to embark on this fresh chapter of my career. This position offers the chance to immerse myself in a dynamic environment, collaborating with professionals from various companies and industries. I’m particularly looking forward to the opportunity to connect with a diverse range of people and develop strong networks, which I believe will be invaluable as I grow both personally and professionally.

While it’s bittersweet to leave the academic setting that has shaped so much of who I am, I’m eager to embrace this new adventure and the unique challenges it will bring. I see this as an opportunity not just to apply my scientific expertise in a different context but also to grow in areas such as communication, problem-solving, and adaptability. This new role is a step into the unknown, but it’s also a step toward broadening my horizons, exploring new possibilities, and discovering how I can make an impact outside the lab.

Can you tell us something interesting about yourself?!

Outside the lab, I have a wide range of hobbies that bring me joy and balance. During COVID-19 times over the lockdown, I discovered my love for painting and drawing, which became a wonderful creative outlet for me. I also started playing the piano and recently decided to pick up the guitar as well—though I must admit, I’m still very much a beginner!

Traveling is another passion of mine, one I share with my partner, who is also my best travel buddy. Together, we’ve explored many incredible places, but Peru has truly stolen my heart. From the breathtaking landscapes of the Andes to the rich history of Machu Picchu, the vibrant traditions, and the amazing cuisine, it’s a destination I’d recommend to anyone who loves adventure and culture.

When I’m not creating or traveling, I love spending time outdoors, hiking, or simply enjoying nature. These experiences remind me to stay curious and open to the world around me—qualities I try to carry with me in all aspects of life!