ANDREA GOBBO | Biochemistry | Best Researcher Award

Posted on by ScienceFather

Ms. ANDREA GOBBO | Biochemistry | Best Researcher Award

Research Scientist at Sciensano, Belgium

Andrea Gobbo, MSc, is a research scientist specializing in health and environmental sciences, with over three years of experience in molecular biology. She holds an MSc in Chemical Sciences with a focus on biochemistry and molecular biology, graduating cum laude. Andrea has demonstrated expertise in developing and validating genomic methods such as qPCR and ddPCR for national and European Union (EU) projects related to antimicrobial resistance (AMR), genetically modified organisms (GMOs), and food/feed additives. Her contributions to scientific research are reflected in eight peer-reviewed publications, including one as the first author. In addition to research, Andrea actively mentors students in laboratory techniques and contributes to team-building activities, underscoring her commitment to collaboration and knowledge sharing. Her professional experience spans method validation, project management, and scientific communication, with proven skills in laboratory operations and data analysis. Fluent in French, English, and Dutch, Andrea is well-equipped to engage with diverse teams on global research initiatives. Her dedication to advancing health and environmental science makes her an exemplary candidate for recognition in her field.

Professional Profile

Education

Andrea Gobbo completed her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Chemical Sciences at the Université Libre de Bruxelles. Her undergraduate studies, conducted from 2015 to 2019, included a thesis titled “Abundance of Chemical Elements in the Solar System,” highlighting her early interest in scientific inquiry. Graduating cum laude in 2021, Andrea’s Master’s program focused on biochemistry and molecular biology. During this time, she conducted a six-month internship for her Master’s thesis, where she explored the aggregation kinetics of amyloid beta peptide mutants related to Alzheimer’s disease. Her dedication to academic excellence is evident through her rigorous coursework and research, which provided her with a solid foundation in molecular biology techniques. This academic journey laid the groundwork for her transition into impactful professional roles in the field of health and environmental sciences.

Professional Experience

Andrea Gobbo’s professional career is marked by progressive roles at Sciensano, Belgium’s leading health and research institute. From 2022 to 2024, she served as a junior scientist, contributing to developing and validating qPCR and ddPCR methods for national and EU projects. Promoted to scientist in 2024, Andrea now leads molecular biology research for projects aimed at improving human, animal, and environmental health. Her responsibilities include drafting SOPs, mentoring students, and presenting findings at national scientific events. Andrea’s work spans numerous projects, including AMR gene detection in wastewater, GMO identification in food and feed, and DNA analysis for probiotics and vitamins. Her expertise in method validation and project management has been integral to these projects’ success. Additionally, her internship experiences at Sciensano and the Université Libre de Bruxelles further honed her technical and analytical skills in molecular biology.

Research Interests

Andrea Gobbo’s research interests lie at the intersection of molecular biology, health, and environmental sciences. She is particularly passionate about developing and validating genomic methods to address pressing global challenges, such as antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and food safety. Her work focuses on using innovative techniques, including qPCR, ddPCR, and whole-genome sequencing, to detect and quantify genetic markers in various samples, ranging from wastewater to food products. Andrea is also intrigued by applying molecular biology to monitor and control genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and pathogens in environmental and clinical settings. Her commitment to advancing public health through cutting-edge research drives her involvement in interdisciplinary projects that bridge science, policy, and societal needs.

Research Skills

Andrea Gobbo possesses a comprehensive skill set in molecular biology, including advanced techniques like qPCR, ddPCR, and multiplexing. Her expertise extends to DNA/RNA extraction, quantification, and sequencing preparation using state-of-the-art technologies such as Sanger, Illumina, and Oxford Nanopore. Andrea is adept at bacterial and fungal culture, DNA walking, agarose gel electrophoresis, and quality control methods like TapeStation analysis. Her experience in working under ISO 17025 accreditation ensures adherence to high-quality standards in laboratory practices. Beyond technical skills, Andrea excels in data analysis, problem-solving, and critical thinking, making her proficient in designing and validating complex genomic assays. She is also skilled in using bioinformatic tools like Primer3, BLAST, and laboratory instrument software, enhancing her ability to interpret and analyze genomic data effectively.

Awards and Honors

While specific awards and honors are not explicitly listed in her profile, Andrea Gobbo’s professional trajectory and achievements reflect a high standard of excellence. Graduating cum laude in her Master’s program demonstrates her dedication to academic success. Her rapid progression from a junior scientist to a lead scientist at Sciensano highlights her outstanding contributions to the field of molecular biology. Additionally, her selection to present at national scientific events and her role as a first author in a peer-reviewed publication underscore her recognition as a valuable researcher. These accomplishments position Andrea as a potential candidate for prestigious awards in health and environmental sciences.

Conclusion

Andrea Gobbo is a highly skilled and dedicated researcher whose work in molecular biology significantly contributes to health and environmental sciences. With a strong educational background, a robust publication record, and proven expertise in genomic method development, Andrea embodies the qualities of a leading scientist. Her ability to manage projects, mentor students, and collaborate effectively demonstrates her commitment to advancing scientific research and fostering teamwork. While further leadership in large-scale projects and greater international recognition could enhance her profile, Andrea’s achievements to date make her an exemplary candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

Publication Top Notes

  1. Development of a real-time PCR marker targeting a new unauthorized genetically modified microorganism producing protease identified by DNA walking
    Authors: MA Fraiture, A Gobbo, U Marchesi, D Verginelli, N Papazova, …
    Journal: International Journal of Food Microbiology
    Year: 2021
    Citation count: 13
  2. Development of a droplet digital PCR to monitor SARS-CoV-2 omicron variant BA.2 in wastewater samples
    Authors: LAE Van Poelvoorde, C Picalausa, A Gobbo, B Verhaegen, M Lesenfants, …
    Journal: Microorganisms
    Year: 2023
    Citation count: 5
  3. Development of a Taxon-Specific Real-Time PCR Method Targeting the Bacillus subtilis Group to Strengthen the Control of Genetically Modified Bacteria in …
    Authors: MA Fraiture, A Gobbo, N Papazova, NHC Roosens
    Journal: Fermentation
    Year: 2022
    Citation count: 5
  4. Pilot market surveillance of GMM contaminations in alpha-amylase food enzyme products: A detection strategy strengthened by a newly developed qPCR method targeting a GM …
    Authors: MA Fraiture, A Gobbo, C Guillitte, U Marchesi, D Verginelli, J De Greve, …
    Journal: Food Chemistry: Molecular Sciences
    Year: 2024
    Citation count: 2
  5. Development and validation of a ddPCR assay to detect and quantify tobacco DNA in smoke and smokeless tobacco and tobacco-free products
    Authors: MA Fraiture, A Gobbo, C Guillitte, S Barhdadi, C Gau, P Philipp, L Marmin, …
    Journal: Heliyon
    Year: 2024
    Citation count: 1
  6. Strategy to develop and validate digital droplet PCR methods for global antimicrobial resistance wastewater surveillance
    Authors: A Gobbo, MA Fraiture, L Van Poelvoorde, SCJ De Keersmaecker, …
    Journal: Water Environment Research
    Year: 2024
  7. Development of a reverse transcriptase digital droplet polymerase chain reaction-based approach for SARS-CoV-2 variant surveillance in wastewater
    Authors: LAE Van Poelvoorde, A Gobbo, SJD Nauwelaerts, B Verhaegen, …
    Journal: Water Environment Research
    Year: 2024
  8. Development of a Taxon-Specific Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction Method to Detect Trichoderma reesei Contaminations in Fermentation Products
    Authors: MA Fraiture, A Gobbo, N Papazova, NHC Roosens
    Journal: Fermentation
    Year: 2023

 

 

Dr. Florence Back | Biochemistry | Best Researcher Award

Posted on by ScienceFather

Dr. Florence Back | Biochemistry | Best Researcher Award

Doctorate at University of Lille, France

Florence Back is a distinguished biomaterials scientist and researcher specializing in bioadhesive and smart wound-healing technologies. Based in Strasbourg, France, she has made significant strides in developing innovative materials for medical applications, including hydrogels and electronic patches for therapeutic uses. Florence’s work is underpinned by advanced training in in vivo procedures and applied chemistry, making her well-versed in both the laboratory synthesis of biomaterials and preclinical surgical applications. Her research has been published in reputable journals, highlighting her commitment to advancing the fields of bioengineering and regenerative medicine. Florence’s research integrates expertise across biology, chemistry, and physics, emphasizing both material functionality and patient-centered applications. She has been involved in collaborative research at prestigious institutions, including CNRS Lille and UC Louvain, and is actively expanding her interdisciplinary contributions to wound care, tissue repair, and bioengineering.

Professional Profile

Education

Florence holds a Ph.D. in Biomaterials from UNISTRA Strasbourg, completed in 2022, where she focused on the synthesis and development of bioadhesives based on gelatin and catechol. This work involved extensive research into the formulation, spectroscopic characterization, and rheological analysis of these bioadhesives. Her doctoral studies were preceded by two specialized master’s degrees, both from UNISTRA Strasbourg, in supramolecular and macromolecular chemistry, completed in 2020 and 2019, respectively. Florence’s master’s education covered advanced techniques in organic and polymer synthesis, including the creation of fluorescent molecules and polymers with unique biochemical properties. Her academic journey includes a series of certifications in in vivo procedures from CNRS Lille, where she developed critical surgical skills required for research involving animal models. Florence’s education has been integral in building her comprehensive understanding of biomaterials and in vivo applications, positioning her as a skilled researcher in medical and chemical sciences.

Professional Experience

Florence’s professional experience includes postdoctoral research and engineering roles focused on advancing biomaterial applications in medicine. Currently, she is a postdoctoral researcher at UC Louvain in Belgium, working on the AI-SWEEP-2 project, which involves the synthesis of electronic patches for smart bandages intended for human use. Prior to this, she served as a biomaterials engineer at CNRS Lille, where she contributed to the ANR Gskin project, focusing on synthesizing and characterizing hydrogels doped with extracellular vesicles for diabetic wound healing. From 2020 to 2022, during her Ph.D. at the Dental Faculty of Strasbourg, Florence specialized in the synthesis of bioadhesives based on gelatin and catechol, marking the beginning of her notable contributions to biomaterials science. These roles have allowed her to develop an integrated approach to material synthesis, characterization, and biological application, emphasizing her commitment to innovation in therapeutic and regenerative materials.

Research Interests

Florence’s research interests center on biomaterials, bioadhesives, and smart wound-healing technologies. Her primary focus is the development and synthesis of bioadhesive hydrogels, which hold promise in tissue repair and regenerative medicine. Additionally, her work extends to smart bandages, integrating electronic patches for wound monitoring and therapeutic delivery, aimed at improving patient outcomes in wound care. She is also interested in the extraction and application of extracellular vesicles in biomaterials, with specific attention to their role in promoting cellular viability and tissue regeneration. Florence’s research leverages a multidisciplinary approach, combining chemistry, biology, and materials science to create innovative solutions that bridge the gap between synthetic materials and biological functions. Her commitment to research that addresses clinical challenges underscores her dedication to advancing biomaterials for direct medical applications.

Research Skills

Florence’s research skills encompass a wide range of laboratory and analytical techniques, particularly in chemistry, biology, and materials science. She is proficient in organic and polymer synthesis, including gel formulation and the development of bioadhesive materials from gelatin, chitosan, and silk hydrogels. Her technical skills include chromatography, spectroscopy (NMR, IR, UV-Vis), and nanoparticle tracking analysis, which she applies in the characterization of synthesized materials. Florence is also skilled in in vivo procedures, certified for surgeries and techniques on various animal models, such as vascular catheterization, cerebral ischemia, and renal grafting. Additionally, her experience extends to cell culture, viability testing, and supervising research protocols. Florence’s ability to conduct comprehensive material characterization combined with her surgical training in vivo highlights her versatility and readiness to bridge laboratory research with applied medical sciences.

Awards and Honors

Florence has achieved various recognitions that reflect her dedication to research excellence in biomaterials. Her doctoral research at UNISTRA Strasbourg earned her acclaim for creating bioadhesive formulations with potential applications in tissue engineering and wound care. Her work has been published in notable journals, including Frontiers in Materials and Gels, indicating her research’s value to the academic and clinical communities. Florence’s role in collaborative projects, such as the ANR Gskin and AI-SWEEP-2, highlights her contributions to interdisciplinary research initiatives aimed at developing innovative therapeutic technologies. Additionally, her certifications in in vivo procedures from CNRS Lille are a testament to her commitment to ethical and skillful research practices. Florence’s career trajectory, marked by research achievements and collaborative contributions, positions her as a promising candidate for awards in scientific innovation and applied biomaterials.

Conclusion

Florence Back demonstrates strong candidacy for a “Best Researcher Award” due to her advanced technical skills in biomaterials, substantial in vivo training, and impactful research in bioadhesives and smart bandage technologies. By addressing minor language skills and pursuing independent research initiatives, she could amplify her contributions and influence in the field.

Publication Top Notes

  1. Optimization of the Elasticity and Adhesion of Catechol- or Dopamine-Loaded Gelatin Gels under Oxidative Conditions
    • Authors: F. Back, E. Mathieu, C. Betscha, Y. Arntz, V. Ball
    • Journal: Gels
    • Year: 2022
    • Volume & Issue: 8(4), Article 210
    • Citations: 7
    • Open Access: Yes
  2. Influence of the NaIO₄ Concentration on the Gelation and the Adhesive Strength of Pyrocatechol/Pyrogallol Containing Gelatin Hydrogels
    • Authors: F. Back, V. Ball, Y. Arntz
    • Journal: Frontiers in Materials
    • Year: 2021
    • Volume & Article: 8, Article 671451
    • Citations: 4
    • Open Access: Yes