NAnA ETS at the Swiss School in Rome: a series of sessions to introduce young people to scientific research
How does a scientific discovery come about? What paths lead to a career in research? And what are the new frontiers in the fight against cancer?
These questions are addressed in a series of five sessions organised by NAnA ETS at the Swiss School in Rome, aimed at pupils in their final two years of secondary school to introduce them to the world of research and guide them in their university and career choices.
From September 2026 to January 2027, researchers and young scholars will engage with the students, sharing their experiences and exploring highly topical issues: from tumour biology to the role of the immune system, right through to genomics and precision medicine. It is an opportunity to discover how a scientific project begins, how it develops in the laboratory, and what opportunities a career in research offers.
The project holds special significance for the Swiss School in Rome, linked to the story of Francesca Martini, a pupil who passed away in 2015, aged just 14, from an aggressive form of acute myeloid leukaemia. Through its initiatives in support of research, education and young people, NAnA ETS keeps her memory alive. These include the Francesca Martini Award, designed to support young graduates interested in pursuing further training in the field of oncohaematology.
The series began on 28 September with Sara Milioni from the University of Turin and continues on 20 October with Martina Sarchi from the University of Pavia. This will be followed, on 18 November, by Gloria Pasqualini from Sapienza University of Rome; on 10 December, by Andrea Marra from the Campus Bio-Medico University of Rome; and, on 8 January 2027, by Francesca Orso from the University of Eastern Piedmont.
Through direct interaction with those who are actively involved in research on a daily basis, students can deepen their scientific knowledge, ask questions and gain an insight into the educational and professional pathways leading to a career in science.
This project combines remembrance, guidance and knowledge, transforming the memory of Francesca into an opportunity for growth and inspiration for future generations.
