Two Labs, One Team: Connecting Dresden and Milan
Over the past year, the Zerial group has grown an offshoot. After accepting a dual appointment as Director of the Human Technopole in Milan, Italy, Marino Zerial established a second team to build upon the work carried out in Dresden. For a while, both groups will run in parallel, until the Dresden lab is set to conclude its operations in 2027.
During this transition period, collaboration between the teams is crucial. To strengthen this connection, we were invited to Milan to spend time with our new colleagues—against the stunning backdrop of Lake Como.
Where Cutting-Edge Science Meets the Dolce Vita
Between talks and workshops, we had the chance to get to know each other and explore the technological opportunities offered by the Human Technopole’s state-of-the-art facilities. With a group leader and several facility heads present, we could discuss our projects in depth—often over aperitivo, lunch, and dinner, in the relaxed yet productive spirit of Italian hospitality.
Our final stop was the city of Milan and, of course, the Human Technopole itself. Touring the building and its facilities gave us a clear sense of how the ideas we had developed over the previous days could take shape and move forward.
Now, what belongs together is growing together
This visit was a reminder that science thrives not only on ideas and tools but also on connection. Bringing together two teams in situ and not only over Zoom across countries creates a unique opportunity to combine strengths, share perspectives, and grow as one. As the two groups continue to collaborate, it’s clear that the future will be built not just on research, but on also on the power of teamwork.
