Italy Rome

National Research Council of Italy (CNR)

Institute of Molecular Biology and Pathology (IBPM)

Brief overview

Within the National Research Council of Italy (CNR), the Institute of Molecular Biology and Pathology (IBPM) pursues cutting-edge research on complex biological processes with a highly multidisciplinary approach. Research at IBPM combines experimental and theoretical tools to expand current knowledge of the molecular mechanisms underlying complex biological processes, and to develop novel biotechnological applications relevant to human health, with a focus on cancer and other genetic diseases, also affecting the respiratory system. The location within Sapienza University of Rome promotes scientific collaborations with several University Departments, thereof creating a stimulating International environment optimal for training of young researchers.

Research areas

Biomarkers/Cell biology/Epigenetics/Genetics/Molecular biology

Host center eligibility

Global fellowships (return phase only)/European fellowships

Research infrastructure/facilities

IBPM has fully equipped labs for molecular and cell biology, genetics and biochemistry, with state-of-the art instruments and facilities. Among others, the Institute hosts the following resources, related to the European Infrastructures EuroBioimaging, INSTRUCT and ELIXIR:

  • Imaging platform, Nikon Microscopy Reference Centre for Central-Southern Italy, with last generation microscopy equipment for high-resolution imaging and advanced quantitative fluorescence analysis.
  • Biocrystal facility for protein production and 3D structure determination by X-ray crystallography.
  • Bioinformatics and Computational Biology unit.
  • FLY4DISEASE, an installation for molecular and phenotypical characterization of Drosophila models of human diseases.

Research funding/resources

Funding for Research activities at IBPM comes in large part from external sources including competitive grants from public National Institutions, such as the Italian Ministries of University and Research and of Health, and local Institutions (Regione Lazio). Other funding sources are National and International Foundations for research on cancer and other human diseases such as AIRC, Telethon, ARISLA, A.I.Vi.P.S., AFM Telethon, Sarcoma Foundation of America, the Hereditary Spastic Paraplegia support group.

Links to non-academic sector

IBPM has agreements with public and private institutions to promote the mobility of researchers and facilitate the access to external infrastructures. The collaborative links of IBPM with private companies having high scientific and technological specialization represent an additional asset. Specific collaborations exist with:

  • Thena Biotech, for the development of nanovectors for drug delivery;
  • the CNCCS consortium for the screening of molecules of pharmacological interest;
  • Takis and Novartis, for vaccines development;
  • Nikon, for development of advanced imaging methods.
  • IBPM is also partner of the CHICO Cluster (Cluster for Health, Innovation and Community).

Experience hosting international researchers, career development & training programmes, outreach activities

The location offers unique opportunities for delivering education and training at various levels as well as fostering collaborations and synergies with University. IBPM has successfully trained many young researchers some of whom are now group leaders at prestigious institutions in Italy and abroad.

The Institute organizes, on a weekly basis, seminars aimed at developing technical and job-oriented skills, as well as courses and workshops.

IBPM co-organizes, jointly with Sapienza University, cycles of seminars to disseminate results and promotes science through lectures held by its researchers and international recognized speakers.
IBPM hosts the Managing Director of ELIXIR-Italy for training in the field of bioinformatics and its applications in biomedical research.

Intensive efforts are devoted to communicating research results to different target audiences through multiple communication channels and other outreach actions. IBPM organizes workshops and short internships for high school students within the School-Work Exchange program of the Italian Ministry for Education.

HR Excellence in Research – EU award

No

Contacts

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