info@medicampus.edu.mt
(+356) 7709 9274
Prof. Sylvana Tabone, MSc
Sylvana Tabone, MSc, is a researcher and PhD candidate in Molecular Genetics at the University of Malta, with a background in Biochemistry and Biology. Her research focuses on the genetic and molecular mechanisms underlying amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), using Drosophila models to investigate neuromuscular function and disease-related genes. She also contributes to teaching in research laboratory skills and model organisms, combining molecular genetics, microscopy and scientific communication.
Education and Positions
2024–present
Teaching activities in Research Laboratory Skills with Placements and Model Organisms in Biological Research, University of Malta.
2023–present
PhD Candidate in Molecular Genetics, University of Malta.
2021–2023
Master of Science in Biochemistry by Research, University of Malta, awarded with Distinction.
Thesis: Effect of Minor ALS Genes on Drosophila Neuromuscular Function.
2018–2021
Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Biology, University of Malta, awarded with Distinction.
Thesis: DNA Barcoding and Phylogenetics of Selected Hymenopteran Species from Gozo.
2022–2023
VET Award in Graphic Design Associate with Adobe Creative Suite, Institute of Computer Education, Malta.
The Most Significant Publications
MIZZI, K.; GRECH, F.; TABONE, S.; CACCIOTTOLO, R.; CAUCHI, R. Toxic effects of GAL80 and RNAi against fluorescent proteins on motor performance in Drosophila. microPublication Biology, 2025.
VELLA, A.; TABONE, S.; VELLA, N. First record of the genus Micromeriella Betrem, 1972 (Hymenoptera, Scoliidae) from the Maltese Islands, central Mediterranean. Check List, 2021, 17(6): 1455–1460.
Professional Activities
Teaching Activities
Teaching and supporting practical activities in Research Laboratory Skills with Placements and Model Organisms in Biological Research at the University of Malta.
Mentoring students and supporting laboratory-based learning activities.
Research Activities
Research focused on molecular genetics, biochemistry and neurodegenerative disease.
Investigation of genetic factors involved in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis using Drosophila as an experimental model.
Experience in molecular and genetic research approaches applied to neuromuscular function.
Research background also includes DNA barcoding, phylogenetics and biodiversity studies.
Scientific Training
Training in genomic analysis in neuroscience.
Hands-on training in confocal laser microscopy, widefield microscopy and fluorescence microscopy.
Training in scientific computing using Python.
Additional training in research integrity, research ethics, quantitative and qualitative research methods and scientific publication.
Scientific Communication and Conferences
Participation in national and international research conferences, including University of Malta Research Expo, EMBL PhD Symposium, LifeTech and conferences dedicated to rare diseases and neuroscience.
Participation in public science-outreach events including Science in the Citadel and Science in the City.
Awards and Recognition
Recipient of the Best Environmental Final Year Project Award from the Environment and Resources Authority.
Recipient of a Certificate of Merit for the BSc (Hons) final-year dissertation from the University of Malta.
Featured in Maltese national media discussing MSc and PhD research on amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.
Languages
Maltese and English: Native.
French: additional language.
