I am a molecular entomologist with an extensive international experience that started by joining the CBP group with a PhD-fellowship from the local government of Valencia (Spain) after completing a master’s degree in aquatic resources and biodiversity at the University of Sfax (Tunisia). In 2015, I earned my PhD in Biotechnology from the University of Valencia. Following, I realized four postdoctoral trainings at University of Valencia, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology (Japan), Jeonbuk National University (South Korea) and University of Pavia (Italy). Since the beginning of my PhD, I mainly addressed questions related to insect-virus interactions, insect pathology and multitrophic interactions to leverage their complex evolutive consequences and identify molecular targets and mechanisms to improve pest control strategies.
In 2023, I was awarded a Ramon y Cajal contract from the Spanish Ministry of Science, Innovation and Universities to re-join the CBP group in March 2024. My expertise in various aspects of insect-pathogen interactions has culminated in my current research that focuses on understanding how viral infections drive and are affected by multitrophic interactions. In particular, I am interested in how viruses shape the interactions of insects with other pathogens and natural enemies, and in counterpart how these interactions modulate the outcomes of viral infections.
