"Learning from Leaders": cutting-edge research experiences in Milan for students of the Agricultural Sciences sector

On October 1 and 2, ten students from the Agricultural Sciences sector of the Scuola Superiore Sant’Anna took part in “Learning from Leaders”, a training initiative that brought them to Milan to explore some centers of excellence that collaborate with the School on research activities.

The first visit took place at the CNR – Institute of Biology and Agricultural Biotechnology (IBBA), where participants attended presentations on genomics, bioinformatics, metabolomics, biodiversity, and microalgae research, followed by a tour of the laboratories to observe ongoing experimental work. The next stop was the Milan headquarters of the multinational company SYNGENTA, one of the world’s leading agribusiness corporations. Here, the students met with alumnus Alberto Piaggesi and several of his colleagues, who presented cutting-edge technologies designed to promote sustainable and innovative agriculture.

The final visit was to T12 Lab, a research agency engaged in projects focused on environmental regeneration and social inclusion. There, the students learned how research can contribute to the development of sustainable territorial models and foster the professional integration of vulnerable communities.

These experiences provided an important opportunity for dialogue with the world of research and innovation, allowing participants to explore the many intersections between technology and nature and to reflect on career paths and professional growth opportunities in a rapidly evolving sector.