Great success for the first edition of “DEB of Science,” the day dedicated to discussion and scientific outreach organized by the Department of Ecological and Biological Sciences

On October 6th, within the evocative setting of the Santa Maria in Gradi complex, the first edition of “DEB of Science” was held. The event, organized by the Department of Ecological and Biological Sciences (DEB) of the University of Tuscia, served as an important occasion for dialogue between the university, the local community, and schools. It brought together more than thirty faculty members, researchers, and research fellows from the DEB, as well as over fifteen teachers and four hundred students from five secondary schools in Viterbo and its province.

Following the institutional greetings, several Projects of Relevant National Interest (PRIN) currently active within the Department were presented, showcasing its scientific excellence in fundamental research and its capacity to translate such knowledge into practical applications aimed at addressing real-world challenges, including potential collaborations with the industrial sector.

Prof. Massimiliano Fenice introduced the Mycoseas project, dedicated to the study of bioactive substances extracted from marine fungi, with potential applications in the development of new antibiotics. Prof. Lorenzo Botta presented the Nirna project, focused on the development of innovative anticancer strategies based on si-RNA oligonucleotides. Prof. Roberta Bisconti illustrated the Hyphen project, which investigates the role of phenotypic plasticity and hybridization in the success of biological invasions—phenomena of growing importance in the context of climate change. Finally, Prof. Dimitri Mugnai offered a reflection on the pervasive impact of mathematics on the tools of everyday life.

The morning concluded with a poster session set up in the medieval cloister of the Santa Maria in Gradi complex, where researchers engaged directly with participants, sharing results, experiences, and research perspectives in an atmosphere of curiosity, interest, and active participation.

The event received wide acclaim for the high scientific level of the presentations and for its ability to promote meaningful dialogue between research and society. “DEB of Science” thus contributed to strengthening the University’s presence in the region, emphasizing the role of science as an instrument of knowledge, innovation, and collective growth.

The initiative was held under the patronage of Rome Technopole and in collaboration with Porta Futuro Lazio, testifying to the fruitful synergy between academia, local institutions, and the world of innovation.