Marco Massimino, BSc, MSc

Marco joined the Gillies McIndoe Research Institute in 2026 after moving to New Zealand from Italy. He is undertaking doctoral research into venous malformations.

Venous malformations occur when veins form abnormally. They can develop in different parts of the body and may cause swelling, pain, visible differences or problems with movement and function. Their effects can vary considerably between people, making it important to understand the biology behind each condition.

Marco’s doctoral project will include developing a novel 3D co-culture model to recreate the venous malformation disease in the laboratory, so that it can be further investigated. Using this model, he will identify how key cells involved in venous malformations communicate. He will further identify how genetic mutations influence this communication pathway to cause tissue scarring. By connecting genetic information with laboratory findings, Marco hopes to help build a clearer picture of why venous malformations can differ so much between patients. This knowledge may provide an important foundation for future research into more targeted and effective treatment approaches.

Marco’s research is supervised by Raka Mitra, Dr Clint Gray, Associate Professor Helen Fitzsimons and Dr Tracy Hale. His project brings together expertise in vascular anomalies, molecular and cell biology, genetics and translational research.

Before beginning his PhD, Marco completed a Bachelor of Science in Biotechnology and a Master of Science in International Biopharma from the University of Padua and MCI Innsbruk in Austria. This background gave him experience in studying cells and the molecular processes that influence health and disease.

Marco was drawn to Gillies McIndoe by the opportunity to carry out research that connects fundamental laboratory science with questions that matter to patients. He values the Institute’s collaborative environment and its focus on translating biological discoveries into meaningful improvements in care.

Outside the laboratory, Marco enjoys football, outdoor sports and enjoying time with friends.