Giacomo Masi | Cellular Senescence Aging | Cellular Senescence Award

Published on by Cell Biologist

Dr. Giacomo Masi | Cellular Senescence Aging | Cellular Senescence Award

Dr. Giacomo Masi | VitroScreen | Italy

Giacomo Masi is a Biomedical Engineer with a specialized background in cellular models and tissue engineering. Graduated with a Master’s Degree in Bioengineering from the University of Genoa, he has conducted research in the development and validation of 3D in vitro models to study complex biological processes. His academic and professional trajectory has led him to work on high-impact research themes such as neurodegeneration, tissue perfusion, and cellular senescence. Masi’s dynamic and proactive approach is reflected in his cross-disciplinary skillset, ranging from 3D bioprinting to immunohistochemistry and flow cytometry. He is currently engaged at VitroScreen, Milan, contributing to GLP-compliant preclinical testing using advanced 3D platforms. His ultimate goal is to support precision medicine through biomimetic model development, focusing on aging-related cellular dysfunctions. With two peer-reviewed publications and ongoing collaborations, Masi is steadily building a career dedicated to biomedical innovation and translational research.

Publication Profile: 

Google Scholar

Education:

Giacomo Masi holds a Master’s Degree in Bioengineering from the University of Genoa, where he graduated with a score  and a Bachelor’s Degree in Biomedical Engineering from the Università Politecnica delle Marche . During his academic training, he specialized in tissue engineering, cellular biology, and biomaterials, complementing theoretical knowledge with hands-on experience in cell culture, imaging, and lab instrumentation. His thesis and research projects often intersected with real-world biomedical challenges, such as replicating complex tissue environments for drug testing or studying neurodevelopment in vitro. He also developed a working knowledge of MATLAB, C, and Adobe tools for scientific visualization and data analysis. Masi’s education laid a strong foundation in both engineering principles and life sciences, equipping him with the interdisciplinary mindset necessary for modern biomedical research, particularly in aging, cellular dysfunction, and regenerative technologies.

Experience:

Masi’s professional journey includes a research fellowship at the University of Genoa, where he contributed to the “Smart BioInks” project focusing on 3D bioprinting and hydrogel development. He designed and validated 3D scaffolds and conducted advanced 2D/3D cell culture with iPSCs and neuronal lines. He has been working at VitroScreen (Milan) as a GLP laboratory technician, specializing in 3D in vitro models for studying tissue barriers and cellular responses. His tasks include immunohistological and metabolic characterization, test standardization (SOPs), and cytotoxicity assays like MTT and TEER. His work contributes to regulatory studies aligned with OECD and ISO guidelines, and he also participates in scientific writing and publishing. These experiences reflect Masi’s competence in translational research, where rigorous lab techniques meet biomedical innovation, making him a valuable contributor in the fields of senescence, drug screening, and disease modeling.

Awards & Honors:

While Giacomo Masi has yet to receive formal academic awards, his most significant honors lie in his peer-reviewed publications and institutional recognition through research funding. His selection as a research fellow at the University of Genoa and subsequent employment at VitroScreen, a leader in advanced in vitro models, indicate trust and acknowledgment from the academic and industrial sectors. Moreover, co-authorship in international journals like APL Bioengineering and Organoids demonstrates the scientific value of his contributions. These publications, particularly the one on senescence-related hair loss mechanisms, showcase his direct impact in aging and cellular dysfunction research. His continued involvement in GLP-certified studies and international dissemination of findings (via conference posters and manuscript drafting) is a testament to his growing influence. Masi’s focus on research quality, reproducibility, and clinical relevance positions him for future awards as his career progresses.

Research Focus:

Giacomo Masi’s research is centered around the development of advanced 3D in vitro models to better replicate human tissue physiology and pathophysiology. A key focus is cellular senescence and aging, as seen in his publication on mimicking senescence signals to understand hair follicle regression and hair loss. He leverages bioprinting, hydrogels, and scaffold engineering to create environments where cells exhibit in vivo-like behavior. His models aim to bridge the gap between preclinical testing and clinical outcomes, offering personalized medicine platforms for drug screening and toxicity testing. At VitroScreen, he’s also engaged in barrier models using TEER and metabolic readouts, useful in aging and degenerative studies. His long-term goal is to enable early disease modeling, particularly in neurodegeneration and dermatology, using non-animal, human-relevant systems. Masi’s work is particularly aligned with modern needs for precision medicine, reduction of animal use, and aging research.

Publications Top Notes:

  1.  “Impact of perfusion on neuronal development in human derived neuronal networks” – APL Bioengineering,

  2. “Mimicking Senescence Factors to Characterize the Mechanisms Responsible for Hair Regression and Hair Loss: An In Vitro Study” – Organoids,

Conclusion:

In conclusion, Giacomo Masi is a strong and promising candidate for the Research for Cellular Senescence Award. His combined academic training, technical expertise, and direct contributions to in vitro models mimicking senescence mechanisms position him well within the scope and objectives of the award. With a proactive attitude, a clear research focus on tissue engineering and personalized medicine, and relevant scientific output, he represents the new generation of biomedical researchers pushing the boundaries in aging and disease modeling. Strengthening his international collaborations and deepening the theoretical narrative around senescence in his research would elevate his profile even further. Nonetheless, based on current credentials and output, he is well-suited and deserving of recognition through this award.

 

Priya Samalia | Cellular Senescence Aging | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Cell Biologist

Dr. Priya Samalia | Cellular Senescence Aging | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Priya Samalia , Health New Zealand , New Zealand

Dr. Priya Samalia is a dedicated Ophthalmologist, specializing in retinal diseases, uveitis, and cataract surgery. With extensive experience in both clinical and academic settings, Dr. Samalia combines her expertise in patient care with a commitment to advancing the field of ophthalmology through research. She holds an MBChB, a Postgraduate Diploma in Ophthalmic Basic Sciences, and a PhD from the University of Otago. Her strong communication skills foster a supportive environment for patients, ensuring high levels of satisfaction and well-being. Dr. Samalia is a Fellow of the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Ophthalmologists (FRANZCO) and has held roles across various health organizations in New Zealand, where she focuses on improving patient outcomes in complex eye conditions. As a clinical senior lecturer, she also contributes to the training of future ophthalmologists at the University of Otago.

Publication Profile:

Scopus

Strengths for the Award:

Dr. Priya Samalia demonstrates exceptional contributions to the field of ophthalmology, particularly in uveitis, retinal diseases, and cataract surgery. Her academic and clinical expertise is evident through her extensive work in diagnosing and managing complex ocular conditions. Dr. Samalia’s research is published in prestigious journals, including British Journal of Ophthalmology and Clinical and Experimental Ophthalmology. Her multi-disciplinary approach to managing ocular diseases through systemic treatments and her involvement in international studies further establishes her as a leader in her field. As a Clinical Senior Lecturer at the University of Otago, Dr. Samalia actively contributes to the training and mentorship of future ophthalmologists, further demonstrating her commitment to knowledge transfer.

Areas for Improvement:

While Dr. Samalia’s research focus is impressive, expanding her influence through larger-scale clinical trials could strengthen her contributions. Further international collaborations in retinal and uveitic research would provide opportunities for greater visibility and further validation of her findings.

Education:

Dr. Priya Samalia completed her medical degree (MBChB) at the University of Otago, followed by a postgraduate diploma in Ophthalmic Basic Sciences (PGDipOphthBS) in 2014. She continued her academic journey with a PhD in Ophthalmology, awarded in 2013, also from the University of Otago. Her doctoral research further deepened her understanding of uveitis and other ophthalmic conditions. Dr. Samalia then pursued the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Ophthalmologists’ (RANZCO) Vocational Program, which she completed with advanced clinical examinations in 2019. She was admitted as a Fellow of RANZCO in October 2021. Throughout her education, she received numerous accolades, including the Tassell Postgraduate Scholarship Award (2012) and the Genesis PhD Scholarship Award (2009-2010), demonstrating her commitment to research and academic excellence. Her robust academic foundation underpins her clinical practice and research contributions.

Experience:

Dr. Priya Samalia has extensive experience as an Ophthalmologist, with roles across various prestigious hospitals and health organizations in New Zealand. Since May 2022, she has been a part-time contractor ophthalmologist at Te Whatu Ora Health New Zealand in the Capital Coast and Hutt Valley, Wellington, and Te Toka Tumai in Auckland, with additional responsibilities in Southern, Dunedin. Dr. Samalia provides a range of services including macular degeneration treatment, diabetic retinopathy management, cataract surgery, and uveitis treatment, among others. Her roles also extend to academia, where she serves as a Clinical Senior Lecturer at the University of Otago, Christchurch, contributing to the training and mentorship of medical students. Previously, she excelled in various high-demand clinical settings, consistently demonstrating high productivity, efficiency, and a commitment to patient care. She is known for her collaborative approach and ability to manage complex cases in a diverse range of settings.

Awards and Honors:

Dr. Priya Samalia has received numerous prestigious awards throughout her academic and professional career. In 2012, she was honored with the Tassell Postgraduate Scholarship Award, followed by the Genesis PhD Scholarship Award in 2009 and 2010. These accolades supported her research and development in the field of ophthalmology, particularly in uveitis and retinal diseases. Her significant academic achievements culminated in her admission as a Fellow to the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Ophthalmologists (FRANZCO) in October 2021. She has been recognized not only for her clinical expertise but also for her leadership in ophthalmic research and education. Her consistent commitment to excellence in patient care and her contributions to advancing knowledge in the field have solidified her position as a respected leader within New Zealand’s ophthalmology community. These awards reflect her dedication to the field, both in clinical practice and in research.

Research Focus:

Dr. Priya Samalia’s research focus lies primarily in the areas of uveitis, retinal diseases, and cataract surgery. She has contributed significantly to understanding the diagnosis, management, and treatment of uveitis, particularly sarcoid uveitis and the role of immunomodulatory treatments in its management. Dr. Samalia is also involved in exploring long-term outcomes of various ophthalmic conditions, including those in pediatric populations and those with retinal vascular diseases. Her work has resulted in publications in high-impact journals such as the British Journal of Ophthalmology and Clinical and Experimental Ophthalmology, with a focus on improving patient care through evidence-based findings. She is particularly interested in the interaction of systemic health with ocular inflammation and the role of immunotherapy in managing complex cases. As a researcher and educator, Dr. Samalia actively contributes to advancing ophthalmic knowledge, training the next generation of ophthalmologists while focusing on improving clinical outcomes for patients.

Publications Top Notes:

  1. Use of Immunomodulatory Treatment for Non-Infectious Uveitis: An International Ocular Inflammatory Society Report of Real-World Practice 🧑‍🔬📑
  2. Insights into the Diagnosis and Management of Sarcoid Uveitis: A Review 🔬🩺
  3. Letter to the Editor: Comment on Raad et al’s “Adalimumab for the Treatment of Non-Infectious Uveitis: A Real Life Experience” 💬📬
  4. Uveitis and Scleritis as a Risk Factor for Mortality ⚰️🔬
  5. Long Term Outcome and Prognostic Indicators in Posner Schlossman Syndrome 🏥👁️
  6. The Spectrum of Paediatric Uveitis in New Zealand 👶🩺
  7. Acute Posterior Multifocal Placoid Pigment Epitheliopathy: Clinical Presentation and Risk of Stroke and Transient Ischaemic Attack 🧠⚠️
  8. Clinical Assessment in Uveitis 🔍📖
  9. Cataract Surgery in Uveitis 👁️🛠️
  10. Idiopathic Retinal Vasculitis, Aneurysms and Neuroretinitis: Clinical Improvement with Infliximab 💉👁️

Conclusion:

Dr. Priya Samalia is highly deserving of the Research for Best Researcher Award. Her robust academic background, impressive clinical expertise, and significant research contributions make her a leading figure in ophthalmology. Her work not only enhances patient care but also contributes to advancing scientific understanding in the field.