Alessandra IOCCHI
(PhD Student 2025 March – present.)
alessandra.iocchi@usz.ch
Simple questions about the most complex system on the planet—the brain—have always intrigued me. These questions open the door to uncovering the brain’s complex dynamics. My academic journey began with a bachelor’s degree in biology in Neuchâtel. I then moved to Zurich to pursue a master’s in neuroscience, where my thesis explored axon guidance, a process that is both complex and highly coordinated. This work enhanced my understanding of the precision required in developmental processes and the fundamental questions related to brain function. This fascination has shaped my passion for basic research, as I strive to uncover the intricate mechanisms that govern brain development.
In March 2025, I joined the Keller group to investigate how neural activity shapes pericyte identity during early postnatal development. My project explores the interplay between neural activity and vasculature development, providing deeper insights into the dynamic relationship between these processes. I am excited to explore these questions and contribute to the lab’s research.
Outside the lab, I enjoy connecting with friends over a beer or glühwein, playing basketball, and feeding my roommates with new recipes, though not always to their appreciation. In my spare time, I like to read, especially about cosmology.