WHAT IS THE DTI

In order to favour the career of young talented scientists, to infuse new creative energy into the Italian Scientific Community, and to advocate a highly meritocratic system of selection and control, Telethon has conceived a program of personal awards to be granted to independent researchers who wish to pursue topics relevant to human genetic diseases, hosted by suitable Institutions. All the Telethon Scientists are identified as members of the “Dulbecco Telethon Institute” (DTI), so called in honour of Prof. Renato Dulbecco, as he made the first donation to this incentive. Briefly, the scheme offers a salary and research grant for 5 years at three different career levels: a junior position as Assistant Scientist, an intermediate as Associate Scientist, and a Senior Scientist position. At the end of the first 5 years and after a rigorous scientific review, a second term of appointment is possible for a maximum total period of 10 years overall. A progressive absorption of the DTI Scientists into the Italian academic establishment is the final objective of the program, which should be viewed as bridge-funding towards tenured positions. All Assistant Telethon Scientists are asked to choose a among the past and present members of the Telethon Scientific Committee who will ensure the necessary scientific support throughout the first 5 years of independence.