Biography
I am a Senior Scientist at the Cell Line Development and Molecular Virology Lab, where I have been working since 2017.
My research focuses on viral vector production for gene therapy, particularly on optimizing adeno-associated virus (AAV) production platforms in mammalian cells. To achieve this, I have been using molecular biology and applied virology tools to engineer cell lines and AAVs, studying the intricate interactions between AAVs and their helper viruses. Additionally, I implement analytical methods and characterization protocols to assess vector productivity, purity, and biological activity. My goal is to provide healthcare solutions that can improve people’s lives, and I have been actively engaged in international industrial projects, translating academic research into technological advances and market value. I am also involved in international gene therapy projects to test clinically relevant AAVs in mouse models.
In 2021, I secured funding from the iBETXplore program, an internal innovation initiative, where I implemented droplet digital PCR (ddPCR) for accurate quantification and characterization of AAV viral vectors. Currently, another iBETXplore project is ongoing, focused on the development of a stable producer cell line platform for recombinant AAV production devoid of helper virus.
Committed to education and mentorship, I have supervised master’s and PhD students. Since 2018, I have been lecturing practical classes in Biopharmaceuticals and BCA at NOVA School of Science and Technology. Recently, I have attended courses to improve my communication, leadership, and project management skills.
These findings have been published in more than 11 peer-reviewed articles and presented at conferences such as ESGCT, ASGCT, ECI, and ESACT. I actively engage with the scientific community as a reviewer for several scientific journals.