Teaching the scientists of tomorrow with Daniela De Biase – The Starlab Deep Dive #8

Teaching the Scientists of Tomorrow: A Conversation with Professor Daniela De Biase

In Episode 8 of The Starlab Deep Dive, we speak with Daniela De Biase, Associate Professor of Biochemistry at Sapienza University of Rome. With a career that spans education, research, and scientific outreach, Daniela shares her journey into science—and why supporting the next generation of researchers is central to her mission.

From Biology to Biochemistry

Daniela’s path into science wasn’t shaped by inspiring teachers at school—but by her own inner curiosity and a father who encouraged her to follow what she truly enjoyed. That choice led her to biology, a PhD in biochemistry, and eventually to academic research.

She fell in love with the lab while working with two dedicated professors who became her mentors. Later, during her PhD in Cardiff, she thrived under the guidance of a supportive supervisor who gave her the freedom to learn by doing.

“If you do something with passion, you can work 12 hours a day. If you don’t enjoy it, even 8 hours can feel unbearable.”

Inspiring Students Through Science

Today, Daniela teaches biochemistry to medical students and future healthcare professionals. But teaching wasn’t her original goal—it evolved naturally through her academic career. At first, she saw it as a duty. Now, she sees it as a privilege.

“It’s a huge responsibility, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. You’re not just teaching facts—you’re shaping how students think.”

She emphasizes the value of staying curious and admits she learns as much from her students as they do from her. Their questions often challenge her assumptions, forcing her to revisit the basics and see them with fresh eyes.

Her Research: From Enzymes to Applied Science

Daniela’s work focuses on a specific enzyme found in bacteria—glutamate decarboxylase—and its role in helping microbes survive acidic environments like the stomach. While the research began in basic enzymology, it evolved to include food safety, microbiome resilience, and even green chemistry.

She’s now part of a COST-funded European network that links researchers across disciplines—from medicine to industry—to explore the full potential of these biological systems. The aim? Apply fundamental science to real-world problems, from food production to environmental waste treatment.

On Making Mistakes—and Making Decisions

One of Daniela’s strongest messages is about navigating career uncertainty. She encourages young scientists to be honest with themselves, reflect on their interests, and not be afraid to change direction if something doesn’t feel right.

“Science is passion. If you’re unhappy in the lab, it’s okay to move. That decision might be the one that leads you to where you really belong.”

Speaking Up for Women in Science

Daniela also speaks candidly about the gender gap in academia. Despite seeing many women in the lab early in her career, she’s noticed the numbers drop sharply in senior roles.

Balancing science with family life is still harder for women, she says—not because they’re less capable, but because of societal expectations. She believes greater visibility, support, and shared responsibility are needed to ensure more women can stay and succeed in science.

“We don’t just need representation—we need to be seen, heard, and involved in decision-making.”

Teaching and Research Go Hand-in-Hand

For Daniela, research and education are not separate—they’re deeply connected. Her ability to teach well is grounded in real scientific experience, and her research benefits from constant interaction with curious, questioning students.

At Starlab, we believe that progress depends on passionate people—those who question, adapt, and share their knowledge. Daniela De Biase is one of them.