Internship Report – University of Malta, Msida
Duration: 23 June – 24 August 2025
Host Institution: Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, Department of Pathology
Scientific Supervisor: Dr Joanna Vella

Between 23 June 2025 and 22 August 2025, I completed a scientific internship at the University of Malta, within the Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine & Surgery, under the supervision of Dr Joanna Vella. The main objective of the internship was to expand my research competencies in molecular genetics and to become familiar with modern metabolomic analysis methods used in biomedical research.

During the internship, I carried out tasks related to molecular and metabolomic analysis of biological material. I conducted a literature review on metabolic profiling of plasma using liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (LC-MS) and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (NMR). Subsequently, I participated in the analysis and interpretation of metabolic profiles of plasma samples obtained using ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS), as well as in the verification of metabolite mass spectra using reference databases.

Within the molecular component of the internship, I performed DNA extractions from dried blood spots using the automated KingFisher MagMax 2.0 system. The obtained samples were quantified using spectrophotometric methods. I also participated in the fragment length analysis of STR markers using the Promega Spectrum Compact system.

The internship also included gaining insight into the organisation of laboratory work. I took part in activities related to laboratory supply procurement, comparison of supplier quotations, and monitoring of laboratory equipment. I also attended weekly research team meetings and supported Applied Biomedical Science undergraduate students during laboratory sessions.

The internship enabled me to acquire practical skills in the application of advanced analytical techniques in biomedical research and to deepen my knowledge of integrating genetic and metabolomic data. Working in an international research environment also provided valuable insight into the organisation of scientific work in a foreign academic institution.

My stay in Malta was also a valuable experience beyond the academic dimension. The island character of the country, its Mediterranean climate, cuisine, and distinctive landscape facilitated an appreciation of the local culture and everyday life. Malta, combining modern infrastructure with a rich historical heritage, provided an environment conducive both to professional work and to exploring the surroundings.

Participation in the internship contributed to the development of my research, organisational, and teamwork skills, and the knowledge and competencies gained may be applied in my future scientific work.

Aleksandra Figura
PhD Student