Prof Massimo Vassalli he/him

I am a physicist by training, driven by a deep curiosity for how nature works – particularly the subtle ways in which cells sense and respond to mechanical forces (I like to say that mechanosensing must have been the first sense that living cells developed during evolution). My research passion lies in understanding mechanosensing and mechanotransduction, and how these physical processes influence biological function, building on this unusual perspective to identify innovative solutions to unmet pressing challenges, such as healthy ageing. My group specialises in advanced microscopy and spectroscopy, using techniques like Brillouin and Atomic Force Microscopy, super-resolution imaging, and FLIM to explore the mechanobiology of cells and tissues in both physiological and pathological contexts.

Our work is inherently interdisciplinary. We collaborate across physics, biology, medicine, and engineering—ranging from fundamental studies of cell mechanics to the development of tools that could be translated into biomedical or commercial applications. I’m particularly interested in projects that ask bold, well-framed scientific questions or have a pathway toward real-world impact. In a CDT context, I would be excited to supervise students who want to work at these interfaces—combining experimental innovation with conceptual clarity.

As a supervisor, I aim to create an environment that encourages independence, critical thinking, and ambition. I offer to my students my energy, mentorship, and access to a broad academic and industrial network, and I expect an open and honest interaction, which is instrumental to establish a fruitful collaboration. My former students have gone on to careers in both academia and industry, building on their technical and interdisciplinary experience.

Equity, diversity and inclusion are essential to how I think about good science. While I do not hold formal institutional roles in EDI, I actively strive to foster a research environment where all team members feel welcome, respected, and supported in their growth. I am aware of the structural challenges many face in accessing or thriving in STEM, and I try to be mindful of this in how I recruit, mentor, and teach. I believe that diversity of background, perspective, and thought is a source of strength for any research team—and a key driver of creativity and resilience.