I am a researcher passionate about developing innovative therapies and advanced disease models. My journey began after completing pharmacy training, followed by a Master’s in Molecular Biotechnology, where I designed light-activated autophagy inhibitors for cancer stem cells at IQAC-CSIC in Barcelona. I then worked as a CSIC-funded research assistant, focusing on 2D/3D cell culture systems and photo-controlled drugs, which deepened my interest in alternative in vitro models and preclinical research.

This led me to Dublin and the Living Lung Lab, where I gained expertise in iPSC-based pulmonary disease modelling. Currently, as a PhD researcher under Professor Hurley, Dr Ozaki, and Professor Cryan, I am developing gene-stratified mRNA therapies and advanced delivery systems for pulmonary fibrosis using iPSC-derived in vitro tissue models. My work integrates drug design, cell biology, and gene therapy to create solutions that address both disease mechanisms and delivery challenges.

Email: sofiaalonsomanresa@rcsi.ie