Meet Annamaria Regina, a PhD student at the CECAD Research Centre at the University of Cologne (Germany). Specialising in Immunobiology, Annamaria’s research focuses on the role of mitochondria in T regulatory cells (Tregs), a key part of our immune system that helps maintain a healthy balance in the body. Her work aims to uncover how Tregs keep our organs functioning properly and how mitochondria influence this process. It’s a field full of promise with vast potential to impact everything from autoimmune diseases to cancer research.

But Annamaria’s path to this point wasn’t easy. It was a journey of resilience, setbacks, and unwavering determination.

Dovilė’s journey into electronics and computer science was sparked at a young age. With a natural affinity for mathematics and computer science, she was drawn to their logical structure and the potential they held for solving complex, real-world problems. Her passion only deepened through participation in various school competitions, where she honed her skills and began to explore the power of technology to shape the future.

While studying at university, Dovilė discovered a fascination with electronic engineering, particularly image and signal processing, which allowed her to merge her interests in mathematics and computer science in a practical, impactful way. This led her to pursue a career that would enable her to design innovative solutions, tackle engineering challenges, and drive technological progress.

In October 2019, Annamaria, alongside her friend Giulia, ventured to London for an internship opportunity. But just as she was beginning to feel hopeful, life threw a curveball. Her paternal grandmother, whom she was named after, passed away. Despite the devastating news, Annamaria chose to push forward with the interview at Queen Mary University, determined to continue her journey.

Shortly after, the world changed. COVID-19 began its rapid spread, and London went into lockdown. Annamaria and Giulia were forced to return to Italy, leaving their dreams hanging in the balance. Upon their return, Annamaria faced another blow: she had lost her Erasmus scholarship and would need to cover her expenses if she wanted to continue the program in London. With finances tight and uncertainty mounting, her dream of working in London seemed to slip further away.

But Annamaria refused to give up. Faced with a stark choice between writing a theoretical thesis or finding another lab, she began exploring opportunities elsewhere. She learned that Germany was one of the few countries still allowing lab work during the pandemic.

Her search for a lab in Germany wasn’t easy. After sending 86 emails to various professors across the country, Annamaria received responses from only 30. Despite the odds, 10 labs invited her for Zoom interviews. Amidst all the challenges, Annamaria’s determination paid off. She eventually found a lab that was willing to offer her a mini-job, which would help cover her living expenses.

Among the offers, one lab particularly stood out: the Max Planck Institute of Immunobiology and Epigenetics in Freiburg, led by Erica Pearce and Matteo Villa. The lab’s focus on mitochondria in the immune system, especially in the gut, was exactly what Annamaria had been looking for.

Her interview with Matteo Villa was a turning point, and after receiving confirmation of the financial support she needed, Annamaria was on her way to Freiburg. The internship exceeded all expectations: she contributed to two publications, gained new lab techniques, and even built a strong network of scientists, which ultimately led her to the PhD program she is now part of at the University of Cologne.

Immunobiology, as a career, offers numerous rewards and challenges. Annamaria believes it’s a perfect fit for those starting their scientific careers because of its reliance on passion, patience, and curiosity.

“It’s a field that demands dedication, but the impact you can make is incredible. We’re uncovering how the body works at a molecular level, and there’s still so much to discover,” she says.

Throughout this journey, Professor Daniele Sblattero, her immunology professor at the University of Trieste, was a guiding light. Annamaria is deeply grateful for his support, particularly when it came to navigating the challenges of securing a lab internship abroad during the pandemic.

“I am especially thankful for his unwavering assistance in helping me find a lab during one of the most challenging times of my academic journey,” Annamaria says.

 “Don’t be demoralised by closed doors. Insist and persist, because if you are stubborn and determined, a thousand other opportunities will open up for you — far beyond your expectations or what you could have imagined.”

Her journey is proof that resilience and persistence can turn challenges into triumphs. Despite setbacks and disappointments, Annamaria’s commitment to her dream has led her to a fulfilling career in Immunobiology, where she is now contributing to groundbreaking research.

Annamaria Regina’s story is one of perseverance in the face of adversity. It is a testament to the power of following one’s passion and never giving up, even when the world seems to push back. From the devastating effects of a global pandemic to the struggle of securing an internship, Annamaria’s journey proves that persistence pays off. Her work in immunobiology, studying mitochondria in immune cells, could one day unlock new avenues for treating autoimmune diseases, cancer, and more. As she continues her PhD at the University of Cologne, Annamaria is well on her way to making her mark in the world of science — and inspiring future generations to do the same.