About Us
We are a group of psychologists and researchers working in the Department of Developmental Psychology and Socialization at the University of Padua.
Here we are!
We are a group of psychologists and researchers working at the Department of Developmental Psychology and Socialization at the University of Padua. For many years, we have been conducting research in the field of intellectual disabilities, with particular attention to Down syndrome.
Our studies mainly focus on analyzing the cognitive and behavioral profile of Down syndrome, and more broadly of intellectual disabilities, as well as evaluating the effectiveness of intervention programs tailored to children and adolescents with Down syndrome, taking into account the specific characteristics of the condition.
Alongside our research activities, we provide psychological consultation, developmental assessment, and habilitation services aimed at supporting each child or young person with Down syndrome in reaching their full potential and, consequently, achieving a better quality of life.
Our team
We are a group of professionals united by a shared passion for Down syndrome
Silvia Lanfranchi
Psychologist and Associate Professor
I am a psychologist and Associate Professor in the Department of Developmental Psychology and Socialization at the University of Padua, as well as the coordinator of Walking Hand in Hand. This project was born from the desire to use research findings on Down syndrome to promote the well-being of children and their families. My research focuses on better understanding the developmental profile of Down syndrome (and intellectual disabilities more generally) and identifying ways to help each child express their full potential. I enjoy skiing and practicing Viet Vo Dao, both of which have taught me that there is always another step to take.
Chiara Marcolin
Psychologist and Research Fellow
I am a developmental psychologist. I graduated in Developmental and Educational Psychology and later specialized with a Master’s degree in Developmental Disorders and Psychopathology at the University of Padua. I am currently in training in a systemic-relational psychotherapy program at the Veneto Institute of Family Therapy (ITFV). For several years, I have collaborated on research projects at the Department of Developmental Psychology and Socialization at the University of Padua, as I believe dedicating part of my energy to research is both useful for others and enriching for myself. I am also a tutor for the Master’s course Cognitive Disabilities taught by Professor Silvia Lanfranchi. Additionally, I am a certified Feuerstein Method mediator and work on cognitive and adaptive enhancement interventions with children and adolescents with neurodevelopmental disorders. I have always been passionate about painting, photography, and dance. My greatest strength and weakness: is empathy.
Sara Onnivello
Psychologist and Researcher
I am a psychologist and researcher in the Department of Developmental Psychology and Socialization at the University of Padua. My work mainly focuses on research, which I believe complements clinical practice by helping professionals better understand cognitive functioning, identify where and how to intervene, and improve effectiveness. At the same time, I believe clinical work supports research by grounding it in everyday reality and highlighting areas that still need further investigation. This perspective underlies my training: research in support of clinical practice, and vice versa. In recent years, I have worked on variability in developmental profiles in children and adolescents with Down syndrome, an aspect I believe contributes to building meaningful relationships with them and with the team involved in this Walking Hand in Hand project. In my free time, I enjoy being in nature, whether walking or cycling. I am also passionate about kickboxing and climbing. As a keen observer, photography allows me to capture and carry meaningful moments with me.
Renzo Vianello
Psychologist and Emeritus Professor
I am an Emeritus Professor of typical and atypical developmental psychology at the University of Padua. After an intense and generous professional life, I have reached a stage where a key goal is also “taking good care of oneself” though not the only one. With balanced moderation, I continue to study and share what I have learned through ongoing contact with children, adolescents, families, and teachers, focusing on intellectual disabilities and particularly Down syndrome. I enjoy mountain hiking and have always been interested in sports.
Francesca Pulina
Psychologist and Research Fellow
I am a psychologist with a PhD in Psychological Sciences, specialized in learning psychopathology, and since learning never stops currently training in a lifespan psychology specialization program. I work as a freelance psychologist mainly with children and adolescents with neurodevelopmental disorders and their families. For years, I have collaborated with Professor Vianello and Professor Lanfranchi on research projects at the Department of Developmental Psychology and Socialization at the University of Padua. I believe this work is valuable not only for my professional growth but also for the wider community.
Sara Colaianni
Psychologist and Research Fellow
I am a clinical developmental psychologist and specialized with a Master’s degree in Developmental Disorders and Psychopathology at the University of Padua. I collaborated for two years with Professor Silvia Lanfranchi’s research group, working on assessments in both typically developing populations and individuals with Down syndrome. I currently continue my research work, with the EXPO project on executive functions, as I believe it is essential for ensuring high-quality clinical services. I also support children and adolescents with neurodevelopmental disorders in their school paths and learning processes. Alongside my passion for working with children, I love dance, which I see as a powerful tool for communication and understanding others.
Elisa Rossi
Psychologist and PhD Student
I graduated in Clinical Developmental Psychology and further developed my expertise in atypical development through a Master’s degree in Developmental Disorders and Psychopathology at the University of Padua. I am currently pursuing a PhD focusing on intellectual disabilities, with particular attention to Down syndrome. In addition to my passion for research, I love traveling and have always had a strong passion for skiing.
Aurora Platè
Psychologist and Research Fellow
I am a developmental psychologist. I graduated in Clinical Developmental Psychology and specialized with a Master’s degree in Developmental Disorders and Psychopathology at the University of Padua. During my training, I worked with children and adolescents with neurodevelopmental disorders and psychological difficulties, experiences that strengthened my relational and clinical skills. Within the research group, I work on the project “Relationship between genotype and phenotype in trisomy 21” in collaboration with the University of Bologna, aimed at investigating developmental profiles in Down syndrome. I also support children and adolescents in their studies and learning. In my free time, I enjoy painting and binge-watching TV series.
Alessandra Tomè
Psychologist and Research Fellow
I am a developmental psychologist, graduated from the University of Padua and specialized in Developmental Disorders and Psychopathology. Through my training, I gained experience working with children and adolescents with neurodevelopmental disorders, strengthening my clinical skills. I am currently involved in the EXPO project, focused on enhancing executive functions in preschool children with Down syndrome, with the aim of promoting increasingly effective, research-based interventions. I also support children and adolescents with neurodevelopmental disorders in their learning processes. In my free time, I enjoy painting, cooking, and reading, activities that help me find inspiration and nurture creativity.
Erika Lupati
Psychologist and Research Fellow
I graduated in Developmental and Educational Psychology and enriched my training with a Master’s degree in Developmental Disorders and Psychopathology at the University of Padua. My experiences as an educator and babysitter helped me develop both relational and practical skills. I have a strong passion for travel: visiting cities and immersing myself in natural environments encourages me to view the world with curiosity and openness. I currently collaborate on the EXPO project, aimed at enhancing executive functions in preschool children with Down syndrome.
Giorgia Fiorina
Psychologist and Research Fellow
I am a psychologist with a Master’s degree in Applied Cognitive Psychology from the University of Padua. During my internship, I deepened my knowledge of neurodevelopmental disorders, gaining experience working with children and supporting their educational needs. Throughout my studies, I gained experience in educational settings, supporting children and adolescents in family and community contexts, as well as assisting with their studies, developing strong relational skills and attention to individual needs. I am currently involved in the EXPO project, focused on enhancing executive functions in preschool children with Down syndrome. On weekends, I volunteer with young adults with disabilities, promoting autonomy and inclusion. In my free time, I enjoy traveling, discovering new cultures, and engaging in experiences that enrich my personal, professional, and human growth.
Margherita Pietrobon
Psychologist and Research Fellow
I am a clinical developmental psychologist, graduated from the University of Padua. I am currently furthering my training as a Feuerstein Method mediator. My experiences with intellectual disabilities, especially Down syndrome, have been deeply enriching, and I hope to give back through research even a small part of what I have received. Within the research group I worked on the EXPO project. I am now involved in a project validating assessment tools for executive functions in Italy. In my free time, I am almost always on the move: I love walking, running, and cycling.
Chiara Vergati
Master’s Degree Student
I am a student in the Master’s program in Developmental and Educational Psychology at the University of Padua, after earning my Bachelor’s degree in Social and Work Psychology at the same university. Alongside my academic path, I have enriched my personal and professional development through experiences in educational, sports, and social contexts, from teaching volleyball to children, to organizing educational and outdoor activities, and volunteering. I love trekking and sports, and I consider initiative and organizational skills among my main strengths.
Camilla Cameli
Master’s Degree Student
I graduated in Psychological Sciences and Techniques from the University of Bologna and am currently enrolled in the Master’s program in Clinical Developmental Psychology at the University of Padua. I also attended a high school specializing in human sciences, where I completed internships in preschools and nurseries. I chose this field because I have always been interested in developmental stages and trajectories of both typical and atypical development. Among my strengths, I recognize strong organizational skills, listening abilities, and empathy.