Pioneer Member

Alex Costa – I did the Master’s and PhD projects in Fiorella’s laboratory, which allowed me to discover the world of research and begin the path that allowed me to reach my current position.

Elide Formentin – Fiorella Lo Schiavo is a remarkable figure in plant physiology, whose pioneering work has left an indelible mark on the scientific community. As my esteemed mentor, she has significantly shaped my career over the past two decades. Together, we have co-authored numerous influential papers, especially on somatic embryogenesis, cell cultures, and potassium channels in plants, solidifying her status as a leading authority in the field. Fiorella’s diverse academic and research background has provided her with a broad perspective and deep understanding of plant physiology and molecular biology. Her role as an innovator is evident in her contributions to introducing new research topics and methodologies. She was among the first in Italy to work on plant cell cultures and study somatic embryogenesis. Her pioneering efforts, including our joint research, have significantly advanced scientific knowledge and established our research group as a leader in setting up cell cultures from recalcitrant species and in the micropropagation of plants in vitro.

Our collaborative research focused on isolating and characterizing potassium channels and elucidating their roles during various plant developmental stages. We also explored the fundamental mechanisms of organ senescence, using cell cultures as a model system, particularly in studying programmed cell death during senescence.

Her mentorship has been transformative for my career. Fiorella’s critical approach to analyzing results, her ability to stay updated with the latest scientific advancements, and her encouragement have pushed me beyond my limits and expanded my horizons. She introduced me to the study of ion channels at a time when this area was relatively unknown within plant biology, opening new avenues for my research. Her support has enabled me to connect with prominent figures in plant molecular biology, which has been crucial for my current position. For all this and much more, Fiorella Lo Schiavo will always remain a fundamental figure in my professional and personal life.

Giovanna Giovinazzo – It was a privilege to have been a thesis student in the Terzi lab at the CNR in Pisa and to have you as my tutor, dear Fiorella! It was the most important formative period of my student and future professional life, truly unforgettable. Science combined with the humanity of ageless and timeless relationships of friendship and respect. Best wishes dear Fiorella!

Giovanni Giuliano – Fiorella, together with Mario Terzi, was my supervisor in the early 80s, when I did my PhD thesis on carrot somatic embryogenesis at the CNR Institute of Mutagenesis and Differentiaton, in Pisa. Her humanity, patience and enthusiasm created a great work environment and made her a good friend, a relationship that continues to this day. I remember the days spent in the Pisa lab with joy, and they had a profound influence on my enthusiasm for plant biology, which continues unabated.

Giovanni Mita – Fiorella is a very special person. I met her when I was an undergraduate student. For me, Fiorella was an amazing mentor and an example of a person with a great and sincere passion for science and great humanity as well. I have always considered myself lucky to have known her, and I am proud of the friendship she always granted to me. It is a pleasure e to support Fiorella as a Pioneer of the ASPB. All the best from the deepest part of my heart Fiorella!

Pierdomenico Perata – Fiorella had a great impact on my career. I had the opportunity of spending a relatively long period in her lab at the CNR, in Pisa, during my MSc thesis lab work. It was great working in a lab with an international standing. Fiorella and her colleagues taught me not only technical aspects of the experiments I was carrying out, but also did their best to instruct me on how to be a good scientist, highlighting points of strength, but more importantly also of weakness in my approach to experimental science. Along my 40 year career in science I was always in contact with Fiorella, and several of her MSc students are now successful scientists. I had the pleasure of supervising some of them for their PhDs, and I appreciated the ability of Fiorella to identify differences in talent and lab attitudes in the students she recommended to me as potential PhD students.

Natasha Raikhel – Fiorella, congratulations on your recognition as an ASPB Pioneer! From your early research on the embryo development of carrot cells, to your later studies on potassium channels, programmed cell death, and abiotic stress, you have significantly advanced the field of plant biology. Your scientific contributions are truly remarkable. Beyond your outstanding research, you have tirelessly supported the Italian Society of Plant Biology and mentored a young generation of scientists from Italy and beyond. Even in retirement, you remain actively engaged, organizing scientific meetings and coaching emerging scientists.You are a unique and invaluable contributor to the plant scientific community in general, Fiorella. I wholeheartedly support your election as an ASPB Pioneer. Warmest regards, Natasha

Zinmay Renee Sung – Fiorella’s pioneering work in carrot somatic embryogenesis laid a foundation for advancements in plant biotechnology. Our collaboration with her and Professor Mario Terzi was truly enriching, fostering not only scientific progress but also cultural exchange and international cooperation. They imparted their passion for science to young Italian plant biologists, and when she was a postdoctoral fellor in my lab at Berkeley, Fiorella’s mentorship extended to my students. This experience exemplifies the essence of scientific progress and community-building through mentorship and collaboration.

Ildiko Szabo – Fiorella made a very important contribition to my career, as she helped me a lot in my studies about plant ion channels. In addition, she has always been a good friend and provided excellent advices for an academic life. I am very grateful to her for her friendship and I admire her important scientfiic achievements!

Marco Todesco – I had the great luck of working in Fiorella’s lab for my MSc thesis. From her and from all the other wonderful people in the lab, I had my first real introduction to molecular biology, plant genomics, and how to do research. Perhaps more importantly, I also learned from Fiorella how a great supervisor should be – caring, supportive, approachable (and, of course, extremely knowledgeable). Thank you Fiorella!

Serena Varotto – Fiorella has always been inspiring for my scientific career, both as a scientist and sincere friend. She is the kind of scientist who can suggest the right solution to addressing research concerns and offer an illuminating word in the dark days of life. She manifests the perfect equilibrium of skills that make an excellent scientist and an amazing woman.

Alessandro Vitale – I have known Fiorella for around thirty years, collaborating with her in scientific research and, increasingly during recent years, in science advocacy to improve Italian and European regulations regarding new plant genetic techniques and a rational approach to the use of science in agriculture innovation. For everyone, Fiorella is an example of dedication, hard work, creative scientific thinking and generosity.

Michela Zottini – I worked with Fiorella for more than 25 years,dealing with research topics ranging from somatic embryogenesis and programmed cell death, to nitric oxide and calcium signaling in development and stress responses. What impressed me was her great teaching and scientific curiosity that feed her ability to grasp the innovative aspects of biological systems, making scientific discussion with her always interesting and stimulating.