Multicellgenome Lab

Elena enjoys many different scientific topics. She has worked on transposons, metamorphosis, and several model organisms, and now, she is the master of our efforts to develop emerging model systems. Growing up as one of the youngest siblings of a large family, it is no wonder that Elena takes a firm stand on the quest for equality and gender balance. She is also an avid bookworm, a writer, and a fan of meditation, and she is our best source for classical music gems and some trekking trips.

Claudio is a role model for all of us. He knows everything and remembers everything about molecular biology, metabolism, genetics, and evolution and he remembers it all!. He has lived and worked in many different places, from Uruguay and Italy to the UK, France, and Spain. But, more important than his deep knowledge and experience, is his positive attitude. In his 80’s, he has boundless energy driven by pure passion and enthusiasm. He is an avid reader, a curious mind searching for answers, and a great person to chat with and learn from.

Meritxell is the master of the lab, the one responsible that all works well. From taking care of our organisms, the people and the lab, to perform some of the most difficult techniques or to sample in whatever place. Meri is naturally adventurous and loves the oceans and the Mediterranean sea. With a passion for art and music, she spends her free time learning new languages, travelling to new places and going to concerts.

Nick is our Drosophila and cell adhesion expert. He has his own lab in Cambridge, but he is so affable and helpful to us that we consider him a member of the lab. Nick’s enthusiasm for science knows no bounds, but it doesn’t stop there. He’s the go-to person for engaging conversations on almost any topic; his curiosity is insatiable. He also actively participates in all our social activities, fostering a sense of unity among the team members. When he’s not in the lab, you can find him exploring the beauty of mountains.

Gonzalo is our experimental evolution guy, together with Koryu. Originally from Madrid, Gonzalo has made a lasting impression in the lab for a few reasons. First, his sense of humor is renowned, and his jokes never (or almost never) fail to bring a smile to the faces of his fellow team members. Secondly, his appetite is legendary; there’s no challenge too big when it comes to his culinary feats.
Gonzalo is also a passionate communicator of science, always eager to participate in events to communicate science to the general public.

Fernando shares an uncanny resemblance to the esteemed Iñaki, albeit a “bit” younger, while having a very personal touch to everything he does. Fernando’s affinity for dark and black attire is a testament to his enigmatic and focused personality. He brings this same precision to his research, with a specialization in Corallochytrium, delving deep into the complexities of this intriguing taxon. Among Fernando’s renowned traits is his reputation as the slowest-ever eater in our group. Lunch breaks with him can turn into leisurely marathons, sometimes spanning a full two hours. It’s a testament to his dedication to savoring every bite and enjoying the simple pleasures in life.