TEAM

Javier González Miguel

Tenured Scientist CSIC

In my scientific journey, I have dedicated myself to exploring molecular interactions between helminth parasites and hosts. With a Ph.D. in Parasitology from the University of Salamanca (2015), I continued my research at IRNASA-CSIC, securing post-doctoral grants from the Spanish Ministry of Science, including Juan de la Cierva and Ramón y Cajal grants. In 2023, I was promoted to the position of Tenured Scientist and established the ATENEA Lab. Currently, the focus of my research is to unravel the molecular cross-talk governing host-parasite relationships, primarily linked to the exploitation of the host haemostatic system. Throughout my career, I’ve demonstrated commitment to high-quality scientific work, fostering international collaboration with research stays at the Universities of Panama, Galway (Ireland), Sechenov (Russia), and Parma (Italy). Besides, I actively engage in mentoring and supervision while contributing to outreach activities for the general public.

Mar Siles Lucas

Research Professor CSIC

I hold a Pharmacy degree from Complutense University, Madrid, and a PhD from Zürich University and Complutense. As a Parasitology lecturer at Complutense (1989-1994), my PhD focused on Echinococcus granulosus genotypes in Spain and Switzerland. I researched host-parasite interactions in echinococcosis at the University of Berne and Porto Alegre. In 2002, I joined the University of Salamanca, broadening my focus to schistosomes, fasciolids, and Dirofilaria. In 2007, I joined the National Research Council at Salamanca, working on diagnostic tools for Giardia and Entamoeba. Promoted to full Professor in 2022, I am currently Director of IRNASA-CSIC and CSIC Delegate in Castilla y León. My research concentrates on the molecular biology of parasites, host-parasite relationships, and the development of diagnostic tools and vaccines, emphasizing cystic echinococcosis, Fasciola hepatica genetic variability, and early fasciolosis phases.

Judit Serrat

PhD candidate

My interest lies in revealing the molecular aspects of host-parasite relationships using the trematode Fasciola hepatica as a model. I graduated in Biomedical Sciences at the Autonomous University of Barcelona (UAB) and later on obtained an MSc in Biomedical Research at the Pompeu Fabra University (UPF), in Barcelona, after which I moved to Amsterdam, The Netherlands, to work as a Research Assistant at the Netherlands Cancer Institute (NKI-AvL). After several years in Oncology Research, I decided to pursue my interest in Tropical Diseases and Parasitology and joined the Master’s Degree in Tropical Diseases offered by the University of Salamanca (USAL). During this time, I joined the ATENEA lab to develop my master’s thesis, which focused on the interaction between F. hepatica newly excysted juveniles (FhNEJ) and the host fibrinolytic system. Since I started my PhD in 2021, I am continuing this work to describe with greater detail how FhNEJ interact with the host intestinal epithelium and whether host-derived fibrinolytic factors play a role in these processes, which might potentially lead to novel strategies that block FhNEJ trans-intestinal migration and the successful establishment of the parasite within its mammalian host.

Marta López García

PhD candidate

My interest lies in examining host-parasite interactions from an -omics perspective. I graduated in Biotechnology at Universidad CEU San Pablo (Madrid) and completed my MSc at Universidad de Salamanca. Subsequently, in 2020, I joined the ATENEA Lab as a Ph.D. Candidate with an FPU grant from the Spanish Ministry of Science. My thesis focuses on molecular interactions during peritoneal migration and liver invasion in fasciolosis. We are developing new models of interaction between the parasite and its definitive host, conducting comparative -omics studies, and delving into molecular techniques to pinpoint the key parasite molecules crucial for its life cycle and influence on host responses. At the same time, I also teach at Universidad de Salamanca developing my enthusiasm for sharing knowledge. I am actively involved in a wide range of science communication initiatives seeking to strengthen the link between scientific knowledge and society.

María Torres Valle

Laboratory Technician

I am currently the laboratory technician for the ATENEA Lab, possessing a strong academic background in biological sciences. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Biology and a Master’s degree in Cellular and Molecular Biology, along with a Master’s in Secondary Education specialized in Biology and Geology from the University of Salamanca. Additionally, I have a Higher Degree in Laboratory Analysis and Quality Control. With extensive laboratory experience, I excelled in internships at Aquimisa S.L.U. and Abiomed Higiene S.L. During my academic journey, I secured two research support contracts from the Junta de Castilla y León, contributing to advancements in knowledge over approximately 4 years at two different laboratories in the INCYL at Salamanca. My skills include teamwork, attention to detail, and a passion for scientific contributions.