Ester Piovesana
About Me
I am a biomedical scientist specializing in neuroscience, with extensive hands-on research experience and a passion for scientific communication. Having spent years working directly at the lab bench, I understand the challenges researchers face, from designing experiments and analyzing complex data to sharing findings with peers and the public.
During my PhD, I discovered that what I enjoyed most was not only conducting experiments but also explaining the meaning behind the research in a clear and engaging way. This passion led me to pursue advanced training in medical writing and scientific communication, enabling me to combine scientific expertise with precise and effective writing.
In addition to my work in neurodegenerative diseases and tau protein pathology, I have developed strong expertise in the field of extracellular vesicles, particularly in the context of cancer and immune modulation. This background gives me a broad and interdisciplinary perspective, which I bring to every project I support.
My approach is focused on understanding exactly what my clients want to communicate, why it matters, and who the intended audience is.
I then develop clear and accurate content tailored to each audience, whether they are fellow scientists, medical professionals, decision-makers, or the general public.
Beyond academic writing, I am committed to making science accessible to everyone. In 2023, I organized Art & Science: Visions on Cellular Morphogenesis, an exhibition that connected science and art for a wider audience. I also contribute regularly to BrainFactor, an Italian online platform dedicated to neuroscience, and I am currently writing a children’s book about the different types of cells in the human body, designed to inspire curiosity in young readers.
Education
Advanced Course in Medical Writing and Scientific Communication
University of Milan (UNIMI), Italy, October–November 2024
Completed specialized training in scientific communication and medical writing for academic, clinical, and public audiences.
PhD in Biomedical Sciences – Specialization in Human Neurosciences
University of Southern Switzerland (USI), Switzerland, September 2020 – June 2023
Thesis: “Tau Accumulation in Degradative Organelles and Its Association with Lysosomal Stress” Research conducted in the laboratory of Prof. Paolo Paganetti.
Research in Extracellular Vesicles and Immunotherapy
Institut Curie, Paris, France, September 2018 – August 2020
Conducted doctoral research as part of the Marie Sklodowska-Curie PhD Fellowship, focusing on the role of extracellular vesicles in immune modulation and cancer therapy. Research carried out in the laboratory of Dr. Clotilde Théry.
International Master’s Degree in Neuroscience
University of Trieste, Italy & Brain Research Institute (UZH), Switzerland, September 2015 – December 2017
Thesis: “The Role of Nogo-A Signaling in Neurite Outgrowth Inhibition” Research conducted under the supervision of Prof. Martin Schwab
Bachelor of Science in Medical and Pharmaceutical Biotechnology
Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Italy, September 2011 – March 2015
Thesis: “Neuronal Fundamentals of Episodic Memory” Supervised by Prof. Riccardo Fesce.
Affiliations & Ongoing Projects
Current Roles
Scientific Assistant & Medical Writer
Swiss Brain Health Foundation — www.swissbhf.ch
I work part-time with the Swiss Brain Health Foundation, supporting scientific content creation, medical writing, and educational outreach focused on brain health and neurodegenerative diseases.
Project Lead – Art & Science: Visions on Cellular Morphogenesis
Main Organizer — www.artandscience.ch
I am the lead organizer of this interdisciplinary initiative that brings together science and art to engage the public and foster curiosity about cellular biology and scientific discovery.
Professional Memberships
Member, European Medical Writers Association (EMWA)
Since November 2024
Active member of a professional network committed to advancing excellence in medical writing and scientific communication.