Viviana Cortiana
Medical Student (2024 - )
University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy

Background: I am an Italian medical student and research enthusiast at the University of Bologna, aspiring to become a physician-scientist in oncology with the goal of finding a cure for cancer. 
Improving or saving many lives through a single discovery is the greatest reward I could ever imagine. 
Despite my medical training not including formal research experience, I actively dedicate time and energy to additional opportunities beyond the university to learn more about the field, deepen my understanding, and improve my skills. 
I believe the role of a physician and researcher is not only conducting experiments but also sharing knowledge with the community, mentoring others, and advocating for global health improvement. In my free time, I therefore participate to different activities and have international experiences that allow me to improve, other than immense satisfaction and motivation worth all the sacrifices.

 Research Interests/Projects: I am investigating targeted therapy drug resistance associated with KRAS mutations through the use of organoids and CRISPR-engineered cells. Our goal is to develop innovative strategies to overcome this resistance and enhance treatment outcomes for patients. Additionally, I have an interest in studying how specific dietary exposures influence colorectal cancer in preclinical models. By exploring these areas, I hope to contribute to a deeper understanding of cancer biology and the potential for personalized therapeutic approaches.

Fun Facts and Interests: I am deeply passionate about public health and hope to contribute to oncology as an advocate, working towards the elimination of health inequalities both between and within countries. 
I am part of a student-run scientific Journal as an associate editor, where I have the opportunity to be in contact with emerging research and support the dissemination of knowledge within the academic community. 
I am enthusiastic and grateful to volunteer in the hospital as a clown therapist, an experience that has profoundly influenced my understanding of the holistic role of a physician, teaching me the importance of caring for the whole person, not just the illness.


Contact: viviana_cortiana@dfci.harvard.edu 
                viviana.cortiana@studio.unibo.it