Maria-Sales Ibiza-Martínez, PhD

During my time as a tenure-track professor, I led and contributed to translational research projects focused on the gut–brain axis in neurodegeneration. My role combined hands-on experimental work with project coordination, scientific communication, and stakeholder alignment across academic teams. I collaborated on several cross-functional initiatives, often stepping in to troubleshoot protocols, improve data consistency, and manage nonclinical research workflows. Working under GLP principles, I gained experience in quality standards, regulatory compliance, and early-stage data packages that support future submissions and funding. One of the most rewarding aspects was mentoring master’s students — guiding them through experimental design, scientific writing, and critical thinking. I also contributed to competitive grant proposals and peer-reviewed publications, developing my ability to translate complex scientific data into clear, structured content for diverse audiences. Through this experience, I developed a strong interest in the interface between science and application — particularly in areas like regulatory affairs, IP strategy, innovation management, and translational project planning. I’m keen to apply this background in roles that require scientific insight, structured problem-solving, and strategic thinking within the life sciences ecosystem. Skills developed 🔹 Managed research projects with a translational focus, supporting preclinical neurodegeneration studies. 🔹 Designed and executed GLP-aligned experiments, ensuring data quality and reproducibility. 🔹Coordinated collaborations across academic teams to streamline workflows. 🔹 Provided mentorship and supervision to MSc students, fostering skill development. 🔹 Contributed to grant writing and scientific publications. 🔹Facilitated communication within multidisciplinary teams. 🔹Applied critical thinking and problem-solving to address research challenges.

At KU Leuven, a leading European research university known for bridging basic and translational science, I led a project exploring how enteric glial cells sense mechanical signals and regulate immune responses during inflammation resolution — work with potential applications in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and postoperative ileus. Securing competitive funding from the FWO, Marie Curie (H2020-MSCA-IF), and ECCO, I contributed not only to advancing scientific knowledge but also to shaping the lab’s strategic direction through co-authored publications and active involvement in grant proposals. I developed and implemented GLP-compliant protocols spanning molecular biology, primary cell cultures, and advanced in vitro models. By creating and validating high-parameter flow cytometry panels, I enhanced immunophenotyping resolution and reproducibility while authoring SOPs to ensure regulatory compliance and consistency. Collaborating across three or more research projects, I provided technical expertise and strategic guidance that streamlined experimental workflows and improved data quality, strengthening cross-lab collaboration and operational efficiency. Mentoring one MSc and two PhD students, all now thriving in postdoctoral roles, was a highlight. I emphasised career development, rigorous data management, and best documentation practices, fostering a culture of integrity and growth. Additionally, I delivered graduate-level training on mucosal immunology techniques and experimental design, which was recognised for clear communication and engagement. Through project planning and resource management, I aligned preclinical findings with translational goals and regulatory expectations, building a solid foundation for future nonclinical development phases. Skills developed 🔹 Translational project management: 🔹 Ensuring data quality, reproducibility, and GLP-compliant protocols 🔹 Innovation scouting and life sciences strategy development

At IRB Barcelona, I joined a dynamic team investigating immune activation pathways in colorectal cancer and metastasis — a project with strong translational relevance. My role focused on designing and executing proof-of-concept experiments to explore how specific immune mechanisms influence tumor progression. I also developed novel analytical methods that improved the resolution and interpretability of immune profiling data. This work contributed directly to the validation of key hypotheses and supported the successful acquisition of competitive research funding. I co-authored a peer-reviewed publication in Nature, showcasing the project’s impact. Throughout this experience, I strengthened core skills in translational research, preclinical assay development, and cross-functional collaboration, while gaining exposure to the early stages of nonclinical strategy and oncology-focused innovation.

At IMM Lisboa, a leading biomedical research institute in translational medicine and immune-mediated diseases, I led an independent project on glial-derived neuroregulators and their role in controlling ILC3 cells in gut immunity. This research uncovered novel mechanisms in mucosal immunity and resulted in a first-author publication and contributions to collaborative projects. I developed and optimized protocols for primary cultures of enteric glial cells, flow cytometry-based signaling assays, and ILC isolation from gut tissue. I managed transgenic mouse colonies, improved C. rodentium infection models, and generated chimeric models using sorted cells in NSG and RAG γc-deficient mice, enhancing in vivo study precision. I also established 15-color flow cytometry panels, boosting immune profiling and reproducibility. These improvements led to an 80% increase in experimental success and a 50% reduction in troubleshooting time. I secured funding through two postdoctoral fellowships and an exploratory grant, reflecting strong grant writing and strategic positioning skills. By coordinating timelines and team efforts, I ensured 100% on-time milestone delivery and streamlined lab operations, deepening my expertise in translational project management. Mentoring two MSc students who later joined academia and industry strengthened my commitment to scientific leadership. I co-authored major grant applications (ERC, KRF, CCFA) and contributed to strategic experimental design aligned with translational goals. My work was recognized with the Pfizer Prize in Basic Research and as co-inventor on an international patent (WO 2017/195042A1) for ILC3-targeted therapies, demonstrating innovation and impact in life sciences and IP strategy. This experience sharpened my ability to align basic research with translational goals, build rigorous workflows, and identify innovation opportunities at the interface of science and strategy.

🔵 During my PhD. At CNIC and Universidad de Valencia—Spain’s leading centers for cardiovascular and translational biomedical research—I led an independent project investigating how endogenous nitric oxide (NO) regulates T cell receptor (TCR) signaling and T lymphocyte activation post antigen presentation, resulting in two peer-reviewed publications. Awarded a competitive national PhD fellowship and additional grants, I developed expertise in molecular and cellular immunology, mastering techniques such as multiparametric flow cytometry, confocal microscopy, primary T cell culture, viability and proliferation assays, RNA interference, RT-qPCR, and Western blotting. I designed and optimized over 10 experimental protocols across multidisciplinary teams, enhancing data integrity, reproducibility, and regulatory compliance. My focus on TCR signaling underpins T cell-based immunotherapies like CAR-T cells. My findings were presented at national and international conferences and supported grant applications, demonstrating strong translational research, project leadership, and scientific communication skills. Throughout my PhD, I honed project management abilities—delivering results on time through critical analysis, problem-solving, and continuous literature review to optimise experimental approaches. 🔵 As an undergraduate student During my Master’s thesis at Universidad de Valencia, I investigated the pro-inflammatory role of Gastrin in Helicobacter pylori infection, contributing to two peer-reviewed publications and gaining hands-on expertise in intravital microscopy, radioisotope assays, preclinical rat models, and early flow cytometry panels. This work laid a strong foundation in translational immunology and inflammation. I also had the opportunity to volunteer to lecture at a practical session on pharmacology. Key skills: experimental design, data analysis, scientific communication, project coordination, and evidence-based decision-making.

Master in International Project Management. Specialized in EU project frameworks with emphasis on risk assessment, stakeholder negotiation, and investor engagement. Acquired tools for managing cross-border R&D projects and complex project lifecycles, including time and portfolio management. Developed advanced skills in designing project plans, aligning goals with business strategy, and navigating international funding structures. Master’s thesis focused on building a market-entry strategy, covering financial forecasting, competitive landscape analysis, and launch planning for a new product.

Completed a Master’s in Pharmaceutical Sciences (2001–2003) at the Department of Pharmacology, gaining hands-on laboratory experience. Conducted research on the pro-inflammatory action of gastrin, highlighting its role in activating inflammatory responses in the gastrointestinal tract. Acquired advanced knowledge through courses such as Pharmacology, Inflammation's Pharmacology I & II, Therapeutic Updates, and Fluorescence Methods. Applied experimental techniques and rigorous scientific analysis to contribute to understanding inflammatory gastric diseases

Licenciatura de Farmacia Comprehensive multidisciplinary education combining health and pharmaceutical sciences, emphasizing the full drug development process—from molecular design and formulation to clinical application and post-marketing surveillance. In-depth coursework in organic and inorganic chemistry, biochemistry, pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, microbiology, toxicology, and pharmaceutical formulation (galenics), supported by extensive hands-on laboratory training. Acquired solid foundations in pharmaceutical legislation, clinical pharmacy, professional ethics, and Good Practices (GxP: GMP, GLP, GCP), crucial for ensuring quality, safety, and regulatory compliance within the pharmaceutical industry. Completed internships in community and hospital pharmacy settings, gaining practical experience in pharmacovigilance, clinical trials, and interdisciplinary collaboration across healthcare and scientific teams.