Dr. Maria Andrea Desbats

Curriculum Vitae

Scopus ID: 26435026300

Dr. Desbats is a tenure-track researcher at the University of Padova, Department of Women and Children’s Health, Italy.

In 2006 she completed her undergraduate studies in Biological Sciences at the University of Buenos Aires, one of the most prestigious public institutions of higher education in Latin America.

Then she conducted her MSc thesis on RNA cell biology and her PhD thesis on chromatin remodeling at Leloir Institute in Buenos Aires, renowned for its excellence in basic research and rigorous training for fellows.

In 2009 she completed a Master in Scientific, Medical, and Environmental Communication at Pompeu Fabra University, Spain.

In 2010 she obtained her PhD in Biological Chemistry at University of Buenos Aires supported by a PIC fellowship (2006-2007) and by a CONICET fellowship (2008-2010).

After obtaining her PhD, she moved to Padua where she developed a strong background in genetics defects related to mitochondria and metabolism until 2019. Having the idea of developing new ways to treat mitochondrial diseases she expanded her research perspective to study metabolism in cancer and screening of molecules for innovative therapeutic approaches until 2021.

In 2023, she became Assistant Professor in Medical Genetics.

In 2025 she became a Junior PI at IRP where she currently leads a group characterized by international collaborations and a multidisciplinary approach, combining genetics, biochemistry, and translational research to advance the understanding and treatment of Coenzyme Q disorders. Her research projects have been financially supported by CARIPARO, and the Department of Women and Children’s Health.

Beyond research, Dr. Desbats is deeply committed to nurturing the next generation of scientists in mitochondrial diseases.