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UM PhD Researcher Presents ALS Findings at Symposium Alongside Nobel Laureates
At the crossroads of discovery and collaboration, UM PhD candidate Sylvana Tabone recently represented the Faculty of Medicine and Surgery at the held in Copenhagen, Denmark — an event that brought together emerging early careers researchers that utilise fruit fly (Drosophila) models for studying genetics, developmental biology, cell biology and neurodegenerative disease.
A major highlight of the symposium was Tabone’s oral presentation, in which she shared recent findings from her ongoing doctoral research into Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). Her presentation generated considerable interest among attendees, sparking scientific discussion on innovative experimental directions and attracting the attention of fellow researchers seeking insight into methodologies.
The symposium offered a rich scientific programme featuring presentations from researchers across Europe and the United States, exploring topics ranging from neuromuscular junctions and mitochondrial dynamics to cancer biology and developmental genetics. For Tabone, however, one of the most memorable aspects of the experience extended beyond the lecture hall.
Among the distinguished participants were Nobel Prize laureates Eric F. Wieschaus and Christiane Nüsslein-Volhard, whose pioneering work on Drosophila embryonic development transformed modern genetics. Tabone had the opportunity to engage directly with both scientists in informal discussions that touched on scientific perseverance, mentorship, and the evolving landscape of biomedical research.
“These conversations were incredibly inspiring,” Tabone reflected in her symposium report. “Hearing first-hand about the years of dedication behind landmark discoveries offered valuable perspective on long-term scientific development and collaboration.”
The networking opportunities throughout the symposium also enabled Tabone to exchange ideas with researchers from a variety of disciplines and institutions, opening the door to potential future collaborations and exposing her to novel experimental methodologies that may contribute to ongoing ALS research at UM.
Reflecting on the experience, Tabone described the symposium as both intellectually enriching and professionally transformative — strengthening her confidence as an emerging scientist while reinforcing the importance of international scientific exchange.
Her participation at the symposium underscores the growing international engagement of UM researchers and highlights the vital role young scientists play in advancing biomedical research on the global stage.
