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
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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