Brief CV: This is my background and professional journey in the field of Biological Sciences. I completed my Bachelor’s degree at the University of the Basque Country in 1994, followed by a PhD in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. My research was conducted at the University of the Basque Country from 1995 to 1997 and at the Unité de Pharmacologie-Endocrinologie, CNRS-INSERM in Montpellier, France, from 1998 to 2000.
Professionally, I have progressed through roles of increasing responsibility at Almirall. I started as a Senior Scientist in the Screening Group in 2001, focusing on assay development and high-throughput screening (HTS) campaigns. I have worked on numerous research projects, including GPCRs, kinases, ion channels, transcription factors, and phenotypic screenings. I then became R&D Section Manager in 2011, as responsible for automation and compound management. Since 2017, I have been serving as the Associate Director of the Screening Department, leading the team.
In addition to my professional work, I am involved in the scientific community as a member of several scientific associations, including the Sociedad Española de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular (SEBBM), the Spanish Drug Discovery Network (SDDN), and the Society for Laboratory Automation and Screening (SLAS).
My contributions to the field are also reflected in various publications based on the achievements and studies from my scientific career. Through these works, I have been able to share my findings and insights with the broader scientific community, contributing to the advancement of knowledge in my area of expertise
Abstract: Advances in screening technologies have significantly impacted drug discovery, allowing for the rapid identification of potential therapeutics and the elucidation of their biological pathways. Techniques such as affinity-based pull-down, label-free methods, and virtual screening have enhanced the efficiency of target identification. Additionally, the use of DNA-encoded libraries, biophysical technologies, and structure-based drug design are also improving our approach to targeted therapies.
Moreover, physiologically relevant cellular models, including 3D cell cultures, has improved the predictive power of screening assays, providing more accurate representations of in vivo conditions.
The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) is also playing a crucial role in advancing screening technologies by accelerating innovation and improving the accuracy of screening outcomes.
Even with all these remarkable advancements, some classical technologies remain highly valuable in screening.
As the demand for new drugs grows, the importance of effective screening technologies cannot be overstated. These technologies accelerate the drug discovery process and improve its accuracy and efficacy, driving innovation and progress in drug discovery. By integrating classical wisdom with novel insights, screening technologies continue at the forefront of research, representing a dynamic and ever-evolving area within the pharmaceutical industry.
