“Here lies the best of Italy — the Italy that heals, cares, and looks after not only patients but also their families.”
These were the words of Anna Maria Bernini, Minister of Universities and Research, who on March 24 visited the facilities and laboratories of VIMM.
The visit stemmed from a long-standing relationship with Giustina Destro, President of the Foundation for Advanced Biomedical Research, who, after several meetings with the Minister in Rome, had invited her to Padua to see VIMM in person.
It was a commitment that Minister Bernini honored — welcomed with enthusiasm by many local and regional authorities, including Manuela Lanzarin, Regional Councillor for Health; Sergio Giordani, Mayor of Padua; Giuseppe Forlenza, Prefect; and Marco Odorisio, Chief of Police.
After meeting with the research teams and before touring the facilities, the Minister listened attentively to remarks from VIMM representatives, in particular from Scientific Director Nicola Elvassore, before being interviewed by Roberto Papetti, Director of Il Gazzettino, on current issues — most notably the long-debated topic of funding for scientific research.
This theme inevitably intersects with Italy’s ability to attract and retain young talent, as many researchers are still forced to move abroad.
“In our view, the only real way to invest in research is to strengthen centers like this one, providing concrete reasons for those who have left Italy to come back,” said Minister Bernini. “It’s not enough to simply tell them ‘come back’ or ‘don’t leave’ — we must create real opportunities that make returning worthwhile.”
The Minister also addressed the issue of resources and research quality: “At VIMM, research is carried out with a capital R — and this is exactly what we are focusing on, with all our strength and through every possible funding effort.”
She concluded her visit with a heartfelt message:
“To the researchers who make this institution great, I say — everything we are doing is to give you the opportunity to work better and to connect even more with your international communities.”
