Azzurra Cottarelli
New York,NY
Summary
Biomedical scientist with extensive research experience in neuroscience and cancer biology, focusing on blood–brain barrier mechanisms in neurological diseases. Proven record of leading complex research programs, publishing in high-impact journals, and collaborating across multidisciplinary teams. Experienced mentor with strong scientific communication and project leadership skills.
Overview
15
15
years of professional experience
Work History
Associate Research Scientist
Columbia University Irving Medical Center
New York, USA
01.2024 - Current
- Lead research on chromosomal instability and its role in blood–brain barrier disruption during brain metastasis.
- Design and execute in vivo and in vitro studies investigating tumor–vascular interactions.
- Collaborate with computational and clinical teams integrating single-cell and spatial genomics data.
- Mentor undergraduate and medical trainees in experimental design and data interpretation.
Associate Research Scientist
Columbia University Irving Medical Center
New York, USA
01.2021 - 01.2024
- Managed preclinical workflows and coordinated multidisciplinary collaborations to enhance research efficiency.
- Investigated mechanisms linking anemia to increased morbidity in intracerebral hemorrhage models.
- Contributed to peer-reviewed publications in neurology and vascular biology, advancing understanding in the field.
Postdoctoral Research Fellow
Columbia University Irving Medical Center
New York, USA
01.2015 - 01.2021
- Directed experimental studies on neurovascular signaling and barrier integrity to elucidate their roles in stroke pathology.
- Investigated mechanisms of blood–brain barrier dysfunction and repair post-ischemic stroke to advance understanding of recovery processes.
- Authored publications in top neuroscience and vascular biology journals, contributing to knowledge dissemination in the field.
Graduate Researcher
IFOM – FIRC Institute of Molecular Oncology
Milan, Italy
01.2011 - 01.2015
- Explored FGFBP1's role in blood–brain barrier development and its impact on vascular signaling.
- Uncovered mechanisms regulating extracellular matrix deposition and Wnt/β-catenin signaling to enhance vascular stability.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to design experimental protocols and methodologies.
Education
PhD - Molecular Medicine
European School of Molecular Medicine / University of Milan
Milan, Italy01-2015
MS - Medical Biotechnologies (Summa Cum Laude)
University of Naples Federico II
Naples, Italy10-2010
BS - Biotechnologies
University of Naples Federico II
Naples, Italy10-2008
Skills
Scientific Expertise
- Blood–brain barrier biology
- Neurovascular unit and vascular signaling
- Cancer biology and brain metastasis
- Neurological disease models
Technical Skills
- In vivo and in vitro models
- Cell culture and molecular biology
- Microscopy and imaging analysis
- Experimental design and data analysis
Professional Skills
- Scientific writing and publications
- Cross-disciplinary collaboration
- Mentorship and training
- Project leadership
Selected Publications
- Author of peer-reviewed publications in leading journals including: Nature Medicine, Cancer Cell, Stroke, Acta Neuropathologica Communications, Development, Journal of the American Heart Association.
- Research focuses on blood–brain barrier biology, neurovascular dysfunction, and cancer metastasis.
Mentorship
Mentored undergraduate and medical trainees at Columbia University since 2017, providing training in laboratory techniques, experimental design, and scientific communication.
Professional Service
- Reviewer for journals including Neuron, Cell Reports, Circulation, Angiogenesis, and Molecular Neurodegeneration.
- Columbia University Senate representative for Professional Research Officers.
- Former member, Columbia University Postdoctoral Society.
Community Service
Volunteer advocate for survivors of domestic and interpersonal violence through the DOVE program at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital.
Core Skills
Blood–brain barrier biology, Neurovascular unit and vascular signaling, Cancer biology and brain metastasis, Neurological disease models, In vivo mouse models, Cell culture and molecular biology, Microscopy and imaging analysis, Experimental design and data analysis, Scientific writing and publications, Cross-disciplinary collaboration, Mentorship and training, Project leadership
Personal Information
Citizenship: EU Citizen
Languages
Italian
Native/ Bilingual
English
Full Professional
Timeline
Associate Research Scientist
Columbia University Irving Medical Center
01.2024 - Current
Associate Research Scientist
Columbia University Irving Medical Center
01.2021 - 01.2024
Postdoctoral Research Fellow
Columbia University Irving Medical Center
01.2015 - 01.2021
Graduate Researcher
IFOM – FIRC Institute of Molecular Oncology
01.2011 - 01.2015
PhD - Molecular Medicine
European School of Molecular Medicine / University of Milan
MS - Medical Biotechnologies (Summa Cum Laude)
University of Naples Federico II
BS - Biotechnologies
University of Naples Federico II