After studying Biology (with focus on Biochemistry), I performed a PhD in molecular biology and genetics at Universitat de València (Spain). My PhD and part of my postdoctoral research was focused on the mode of action of Bacillus thuringiensis insecticidal toxins and how insects can become resistant to that bacteria and its main virulence factors, the Cry toxins. During my postdoctoral period at Wageningen U&R (The Netherlands), I had the opportunity to perform certain research with baculovirus and become fascinated about insect viruses and the interplay with their host. Since then, I have focused my research in understanding the mechanism underlining the insect interaction with its viral and bacterial pathogens, somehow specializing in insect virology and pathology.
Currently, I’m full professor in Genetics, combining teaching at the Department of Genetics with research at the Institute BIOTECMED (U. València) on the mechanisms governing the insect-pathogen interaction. Research in my team deals with the insect-pathogen interactions in a broad sense. I’m interested in understanding how insects respond to pathogens, but also how pathogens can regulate insect interactions with upper (parasitoids) and lower trophic levels (host plants). Based on the knowledge acquired on the insect-pathogen interactions, In 2025, together with other members of the CBP group I have participated in the creation of cucare Diagnostics, a spin-off company focused on the generation of tools and services for the insect mass-rearing industry.
