Biography

Fight against disease is not only fought in the trenches of hospital wings, but also and especially in the lab, by trying to uncover its fundamental principles. Transcription of genetic information into RNA is at the heart of cellular function and is controlled by the activity of three RNA Polymerases (Pol) in human cells. While most research has so far focused on Pol II, not much is known about Pol III transcription. However, knowledge of the latter may be instrumental to combat disease, since Pol III has been shown to be commonly dysregulated in a number of pathologies, including cancer. For example, tRNA-methionine overexpression is sufficient to increase cell metabolism and proliferation. In my PhD, I aim to harness state-of-the-art Artificial Intelligence methods and genomic tools that are yet to be brought together in transcriptional regulation to capture the biological complexity of Pol III activity. Through the study of cis- and trans- regulators of human RNA Polymerase III, it will be possible to identify novel potential therapeutic targets. I am honoured to have become part of the Gates community and eager to apply my skills for the betterment of human health.

Previous Education

University of Cambridge Systems Biology 2022
University of Cambridge Natural Sciences, Engineering 2021