Internship Report – University of Malta, Msida 
Duration: 22 June – 19 July 2026 
Host Institution: Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Applied Biomedical Science
Scientific Supervisor: Dr Joanna Vella

From 22 June to 19 July 2026, I completed a scientific internship at the Department of Applied Biomedical Science, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Malta, under the supervision of Dr Joanna Vella. The primary objective of the internship was to further develop my research competencies in modern DNA analysis methods and to improve my skills in the interpretation of genetic data using advanced molecular biology techniques.

During the internship, I was actively involved in the ongoing research activities carried out in the laboratory. Most of my work focused on genetic analyses, ranging from biological sample preparation and DNA extraction to the analysis of X chromosome markers and the interpretation of the obtained results. Participating in each stage of the analytical workflow allowed me to gain a deeper understanding of the practical aspects of genetic research and to further develop skills that I apply in my doctoral research.

Another area of my work involved metabolomic analyses using UHPLC-MS/MS. Taking part in the analysis and interpretation of plasma metabolomic profiles enabled me to further develop the skills acquired during my previous research mobilities and expand my knowledge of metabolomic data interpretation.

Equally valuable was the opportunity to participate in the daily activities of the laboratory and collaborate with an international research team. Exchanging experiences with the staff and students of the Department of Applied Biomedical Science allowed me to view ongoing research from a broader perspective and gain a better understanding of how an international research laboratory is organised. These experiences complemented the scientific competencies I continue to develop throughout my research career.

This year’s visit marked my third scientific internship at the University of Malta, which allowed me to become fully engaged in research activities and continue my collaboration with the laboratory team from the very beginning. Continuing this cooperation enabled me to strengthen the competencies I had developed during previous internships, become familiar with new research methods, and further build scientific relationships that I hope will lead to future collaborative projects. I am very grateful to have had the opportunity to spend several more weeks in Malta—a place to which I always return with great pleasure and which has become especially close to me over the years. In addition to the valuable scientific experience, this stay gave me the chance to once again enjoy the unique atmosphere and distinctive island lifestyle that make Malta such a special place.