APCOM

Despite being visibly moved, upon receiving the Laurea honoris causa this morning, Rita Levi Montalcini did not lose her wit: "To praise a person's virtues - she remarked - is usually part of an obituary. Today I had the pleasure of listening to the story of my life in the words of Lady Professor Lilia Alberghina, and this really moved me" said the medicine Nobel laureate.

The honorary degree in industrial biotechnologies was awarded by the Bicocca University in Milan which this year celebrates its 10th anniversary. The ceremony took place this morning with the participation of the University Chancellor Marcello Fontanesi, of the professors head of the eight departments, the former judge Saverio Borrelli and former Education Minister Luigi Berlinguer.

In awarding the honorary degree, the Bicocca University cited Levi Montalcini's "merit in having opened the path to the comprehension of the mechanisms through which complex organism's cells communicate and in having, moreover, highlighted the role of the scientists in supporting ethical and social values".

Montalcini delivered a humurous and positive speech. "In my life I have worked like Robinson Crusoe. My first laboratory was in my bedroom and I continued working despite the many difficulties. My intelligence - she said - is little more that just mediocre. I was honoured by the Stockholm Institute thanks to my "epigenetic" optimism and my determination".

Then, addressing the younger audience present and the ceremony, Rita Levi Montalcini explained: "Do have faith even at difficult times. Myself, I have to thank Hitler and Mussolini if I was obliged to work the way I did" added the Sephard Jewish 99 year old Italian nerologist who is also senator for life in the Italian Senate.