Member Spotlight: Giorgia Quadrato, PhD

Giorgia Quadrato, PhD
USC Keck School of Medicine, USA

Hometown
Bari, Italy

Current Residence
Los Angeles, California

Graduate Degree
Developmental Neurobiology

Postdoc Work
Developmental Neurobiology

Current Position
Assistant Professor at the University of Southern California Keck School of Medicine, USA

• What is the current focus of your research?

  The Quadrato lab focuses on understanding the cellular and molecular basis of human brain development and psychiatric disease. By combining emerging models of the human brain with single-cell omics approaches, we aim to identify cell type-specific disease mechanisms and, above all, new treatments for human neuropsychiatric disorders. To improve the physiological relevance of human pluripotent stem cell-derived organoids, our lab is leveraging interdisciplinary strategies and technologies aimed at tighter regulatory control through bioengineering approaches, along with newer unbiased organoid analysis readouts.

• How would you explain the significance of this work to a lay audience?

  The Quadrato Lab is committed to contributing to understanding human brain development (which is still a mystery!) and combating neuropsychiatric disorders.

• What do you find most rewarding about your work?

  I am very much invested in mentoring. In my lab, I strive to foster an inclusive and collaborative learning environment to develop and empower next-generation leaders in science and innovation. I enjoy witnessing and being part of the path of the extraordinary individuals that join my lab and seeing them overcome challenges, build resilience, and flourish over the years.

• What is the most exciting aspect of your work?

  The aha moments! The search for truth and the joy of discovery, especially when shared with my lab members.

• What led you to become a scientist and to stem cell research?

  My specific interest in the neural stem cell field began early during my Master’s degree in Biotechnology, when I took a class on adult neurogenesis. I was deeply fascinated by how this discovery ended a central dogma in neurobiology and opened up therapeutic possibilities for neurological disorders.

• What guidance would you share in talking with trainees interested in pursuing your area of research?

  First of all, great choice! It is an inspiring time to study the wonders of developmental biology and stem cell biology. Catch up with the old literature to identify open questions that can now be answered through the latest technological innovation. Science is fun - choose the right mentor/lab and enjoy it!

• Do you have any mentors or individuals who have inspired you in your stem cell work?

  The scientist who inspires me the most in my stem cell work is the late Yoshiki Sasai. The visionary scientist who, with his endless intuition, knowledge, and creativity, has transformed the stem cell field and led the way in establishing protocols for generating human pluripotent stem cell-derived organoids.

  My mentor, Paola Arlotta, Professor at Harvard University, has greatly impacted my growth as a scientist and human being. In addition to being a spectacular scientist blazing new paths at the interface between developmental neurobiology and stem cell biology, Paola understands women scientists' struggle very well. She is a powerful role model for a woman scientist that never tires in her efforts to innovate, inspire change, and train others while also being a caring mother.

• How do you spend your free time?

  I typically spend the time outside the lab enjoying nature, art, and music with family and friends. I love the ocean and SCUBA diving. I am also an avid reader and Qigong enthusiast.

• What is something your peers would be surprised to learn about you?

  I am terrified of driving and avoid driving on the highway despite living in Los Angeles!

• What do you most value about your membership with the ISSCR?

  The ISSCR promotes and stands by principles of rigor, transparency, diversity, and equity in all areas of stem cell research. I am proud of being an active member of this community that, through policy initiatives, is shaping the future of stem cell research.