Interview with Dr Nicoletta Murciano
Nanion Technologies GmbH - Supervisor
What first sparked your curiosity for science and research?
I’ve always had a strong tendency to question things and investigate how they work, even as a child. I wanted to understand why and how things happened. As I grew older, I was determined to study medicine, with the dream of becoming a neurosurgeon.
When I didn’t pass the entrance test on my first try, I enrolled in Biology as a temporary backup plan. But from the very first lessons, I realised how strongly I was drawn to the world of scientific research. I completely fell in love with the lab environment – putting my hands on the bench, solving real problems, and seeing how scientific questions take shape and evolve through experiments.
It was a turning point: I saw that research wasn't just about theory, but about curiosity, creativity, and persistence. I felt immediately that it suited me perfectly.
How did you first hear about the MSCA Doctoral Network, and what made you decide to apply?
I found the MSCA opportunity while looking for a PhD abroad that combined both electrophysiology and translational research. The EVIDENCE project immediately caught my attention because of its interdisciplinary approach and the focus on red blood cells – an area I was already very interested in.
I already knew that a Marie Skłodowska-Curie fellowship offered high-level training, strong international collaboration, and excellent career development opportunities. That was exactly the kind of doctoral experience I was looking for.
What stood out during the application process was the interview phase. That’s when it all became real: reading about the project and then talking to the people behind it made me realise how exciting and ambitious the network was. It was a bit intimidating at first, but also extremely motivating.
"Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. A PhD, especially within an MSCA network, is not just about becoming an expert in your topic. It’s about growing as a professional and as a person."
What was your experience like as an MSCA fellow at Nanion working on the EVIDENCE project?
It was an extremely formative experience, both professionally and personally. Being part of a company like Nanion while enrolled in an MSCA network gave me access to resources and opportunities that are often limited in traditional academic settings. The financial support, dedicated training budget, and access to cutting-edge instruments allowed me to fully dedicate myself to research, travel to international conferences, and grow in a highly stimulating environment.
Nanion develops state-of-the-art electrophysiology platforms, which turned out to be the perfect tools for my project. I had the unique opportunity to work directly with the instruments I was using to investigate ion channels in red blood cells – a niche but complex field that greatly benefited from the flexibility and precision of automated patch clamp systems.
Working in an industrial setting also shifted my perspective: it taught me how to approach research in a fast-paced, goal-oriented, and collaborative way. One particularly meaningful challenge was optimizing assays for red blood cell ion channels, a topic not widely studied with this technology. It took creativity, perseverance, and lots of troubleshooting – but the results were rewarding, both scientifically and personally.
From MSCA fellow to supervisor – that’s quite a journey!
My experience as an MSCA fellow had a strong impact on how I shaped my career after the PhD. Being part of an international and interdisciplinary network like EVIDENCE helped me develop key skills—like working across disciplines, adapting to different working styles, and communicating clearly with colleagues from diverse backgrounds.
One of the most valuable aspects was the high level of autonomy I was given. Managing my own project, making experimental decisions, and navigating challenges helped me grow more confident and independent. That experience made the transition into a more senior role feel like a natural step.
Now, in the INNOVATION project, I’m applying those same skills while supporting younger researchers in their projects. I don’t see myself as a mentor in the formal sense, —but I enjoy sharing my experience, helping others troubleshoot experiments, and contributing to the bigger picture. It feels rewarding to now be part of the structure that once supported me.
What role did the MSCA network or your fellow researchers play in your development?
The MSCA network offered a strong sense of community. I formed lasting friendships with other early-stage researchers, and we supported each other through both scientific and personal ups and downs.
Even today, some of those connections have led to new collaborations or just helpful advice when navigating new challenges. It’s a great example of how MSCA is more than just a funding scheme – it's a platform for long-term growth and support.
"I wish I had known how important it is to embrace the uncertainty and the failures, because that’s where the learning happens. Be open to feedback, build your network, and enjoy the journey."
Research isn’t always easy – but it has its deeply rewarding moments.
One of the most rewarding moments during my PhD was identifying a functional phenotype in patient red blood cells that helped explain part of their clinical symptoms. It was a small but meaningful step, bringing together molecular biology, electrophysiology, and patient care, exactly why I chose translational research.
The path wasn't always easy. Working with patient samples and developing electrophysiological assays for red blood cells, a rarely studied cell type in this context, required patience, creativity, and a lot of troubleshooting.
Among the highlights, contributing to a Blood paper that characterized a new blood group system was especially impactful and even gained media attention. Presenting my work at the Gordon Conference and seeing strong interest – including from a Nobel Prize winner – was also unforgettable.
Overall, publishing eight papers and contributing to the understanding of rare anaemias made the challenges worthwhile and deeply fulfilling.
What advice would you give to someone considering a PhD or thinking about joining the MSCA Doctoral Network?
Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. A PhD, especially within an MSCA network, is not just about becoming an expert in your topic. It’s about growing as a professional and as a person.
I wish I had known how important it is to embrace the uncertainty and the failures, because that’s where the learning happens. Be open to feedback, build your network, and enjoy the journey.