Prof. Massimo Pinzani Takes the Helm as ISMETT’s New Scientific Director
By: Francesca Valagussa
ISMETT and UPMC proudly announce the appointment of Massimo Pinzani, M.D., Ph.D., F.R.C.P., F.A.A.S.L.D., M.A.E., as the esteemed new Scientific Director of IRCCS ISMETT – UPMC, renowned organ transplant center and provider of highly specialized therapies in Palermo, Italy.
Dr. Pinzani, a Professor of Medicine at University College London (UCL) and the Founder and Director of the UCL Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, brings a wealth of experience to his new role. He has held the prestigious Sheila Sherlock Chair of Hepatology at UCL, solidifying his standing as an international authority in hepatology and translational gastroenterology.
Massimo Pinzani, M.D.
Professor Pinzani, whose academic and clinical journey spans over four decades, has been a key figure in scientific research, earning international recognition through various awards and accolades. His appointment as the head of research at ISMETT signifies a pivotal moment in the Institute’s trajectory towards growth and development.
“It is an honor for me to take on the role of Scientific Director of ISMETT,” said Pinzani. “ISMETT is globally acknowledged for its excellence in the provision of state-of-the-art care and its high-level research in the field of transplantation and end-stage organ failure. I am excited at the prospect of working with the ISMETT team to continue improving the quality of care provided and contributing to the progress of medical science.”
Angelo Luca, M.D., Managing Director of UPMC Italy and Director of IRCCS ISMETT – UPMC, shared his enthusiasm, “We are thrilled to welcome Professor Pinzani. His expertise in translational research and technological transfer will be joined by that of another eminent scientist, Professor Giulio Superti-Furga, recently appointed by Ri.MED Foundation and UPMC to lead the Biomedical Research and Biotechnology Center (BRBC) in Carini, Palermo.”
These two internationally-renowned scientists are poised to strengthen the global significance of the project, making Sicily an international hub for biomedical research and highly specialized therapies. This initiative is expected to bring substantial economic and social benefits to the entire region.
Professor Pinzani succeeds Professor Giulio Conaldi, whose outstanding contribution as the former scientific director has been instrumental in leading ISMETT with passion and dedication. Professor Conaldi remains committed to supporting the continued growth of ISMETT.
ISMETT is a leader in the field of transplantation, cardiothoracic and abdominal surgery, and highly specialized therapies. The facility is an example of innovative and efficient health care management. A point of reference in the Mediterranean basin, it was born from the international partnership between the Sicilian Region and UPMC. In June 2017, the Ri.MED Foundation, established by the Presidency of the Council of Ministers, became members of ISMETT.
ISMETT offers all available organ transplant programs, obtaining clinical results equal to those of the best international centers. Data provided by the National Transplant Center in Italy verifies this.
All clinical activities offered by ISMETT are characterized by the multidisciplinary approach of its team of specialists, who offer cutting-edge therapies conducted with advanced technological services.
Doctors and health professionals come from different parts of the world, enriching ISMETT’s services with experience and professionalism gained in international academic and hospital facilities. Specialists work closely with colleagues within UPMC’s international network.
For all these reasons, the Institute attracts many patients from the Mediterranean area.
