CARRATALÁ TOMÁS, Jose Vicente

Academic training

PhD in Biotechnology, AUTONOMOUS UNIVERSITY OF BARCELONA
Master's Degree in Advanced Biotechnology, UNIVERSITY AUTÒNOMA DE BARCELONA
Graduated in Biotechnology, UNIVERSITY OF VALENCIA

Professional experience

My fascination with biology and its applications led me to embark on an academic journey in the field of biotechnology. During my bachelor's degree in biotechnology, I had the opportunity to immerse myself in everything that had always intrigued me. However, the real adventure began when I collaborated for two years in an applied microbiology laboratory, where I acquired the essential foundations of laboratory work.
Later, during my master's thesis, I had the opportunity to carry out a research project independently. My performance at work gave me the opportunity to expand and further deepen this research during my doctorate, all thanks to a predoctoral scholarship awarded by the Autonomous University of Barcelona (PIF).
During my time in the Nanobiotechnology (NBT) group, I worked on the development of protein-based nanoformats, including inclusion bodies (IBs), protein self-assembling nanoparticles and nanoconjugates for the treatment of infectious diseases. A part of my doctoral thesis was developed in an international context, during a three-month stay at the Center for the Study and Assessment of Microbial Diversity (CEVDM) of the University of Sherbrooke in Quebec, Canada.
During my stay, I had the opportunity to evaluate my antimicrobial compounds in an experimental model of bacterial infection in mice.
During my doctoral training, I also discovered the importance of teaching.
I was actively involved in practical teaching for several years, which allowed me to enthusiastically share everything I had learned. Additionally, I had the privilege of mentoring and training new master's students who joined our group, which further strengthened my commitment to teaching.
Finally, I presented my doctoral thesis titled "Development and characterization of protein nanoformulations as alternative therapies to reduce the use of antibiotics" and obtained the qualification of Excellent Cum Laude, in addition to receiving an international doctoral mention for the quality of my research.
My commitment to research led me to continue my work as a postdoctoral researcher in the Nanobiotechnology group for seven months. Currently, I am a postdoctoral researcher thanks to a Margarita Salas scholarship for the training of young doctors. During my first year in this position, I expanded my knowledge by joining a different laboratory at the Institute of Agri-Food Research and Technology (IRTA). Parallel to my research work, I have maintained my commitment to teaching, developing internships on a voluntary basis.
My current research focuses on the development of protein-based antimicrobials as a crucial alternative to antibiotic use, especially in light of the growing threat of antimicrobial resistance.