Monica Di Luca (University of Milan)

Monica Di Luca is the author of more than 180 articles published in peer reviewed journals. She is a member of the European Molecular Biology Organisation (EMBO) and has received major international distinctions and awards. Monica Di Luca’s primary research interest relates to neuronal plasticity both in physiological and pathological conditions. Her research group has significantly contributed to understanding the molecular mechanisms regulating the molecular and structural dynamics of glutamatergic synapses. These findings open new avenues that help to identify novel molecules targeting early synaptic dysfunction for pharmacological interventions in the still unresolved context of neurodegenerative disease treatment.

A preeminent trait of Monica Di Luca’s career is her strong involvement in establishing and steering collaborative networks with scientists and clinicians collaborating on societal challenges. From 2010 to 2012 she was the Chair for Europe of International Brain Research Organisation (IBRO); from 2014 to 2016 she was President of the Federation of European Neuroscience Societies (FENS); from 2014 to 2018 she served as Vice Rector of the University of Milan for International Affairs. At present, Monica Di Luca is the President of the European Brain Council (EBC), a non-profit organisation that brings together scientific societies, patient organisations, professional societies and industry partners. The main mission of EBC is to promote brain research in order to improve the lives of the estimated 179 million Europeans living with brain conditions.