I am Gema, a Mexican scientist interested in applying artificial intelligence and computational approaches to design proteins with biotechnological applications. My research focuses on understanding protein interactions and functions as a foundation for developing new strategies in protein design. I earned my undergraduate degree in Chemical Biology and Parasitology from the Universidad Autónoma de Guerrero (UAGro), Mexico. I later obtained my Master’s degree in Molecular Biology at the Instituto Potosino de Investigación Científica y Tecnológica (IPICYT) in San Luis Potosí, followed by a PhD in Molecular Engineering at the Autonomous University of San Luis Potosí. During my doctoral research, I studied protein–protein interactions using molecular biology, cellular assays, and biophysical approaches to better understand protein function.After completing my PhD, I worked in a biotechnology startup that used the insect Hermetia illucens to revalorize organic residues, an experience that strengthened my interest in the biotechnological potential of enzymes and peptides derived from biological systems.

In my current postdoctoral work, I am developing a minimalist light-harvesting antenna to engineer photosynthetic bacteria, while expanding my expertise in computational and artificial intelligence tools for protein design. Outside the laboratory, I enjoy cooking, exploring different cuisines, listening and dancing to music, hiking, traveling, and watching movies.

I come originally from México, but I like to move around and meet people from around the world. I was one of the nanotechnology program’s pioneers at UNAM in Ensenada, and later on I earned a masters degree at Uppsala University, on applied biotechnology. There I also developed a big interest in synthetic biotechnology and its industry. This has brought me here, where I aim to expand and improve my expertise in the field. I also love studying languages and reading historic fiction.

I was born and raised in South Korea. After marrying, I moved around many places. During my masters, I studied protein structural biology. I have experienced as a technician and assistant in Korea and Japan. I would still want to learn many new skills and try my new challenges. Apart from science, I am enjoying my free time snorkeling, visiting delicious restaurants and exploring Okinawa with my family. Especially these days, I fell in love with studying while watching Japanese dramas.

In my free time, I like to travel, hand drip some coffee, play tennis, and skiing. I used to be a political science researcher. After that, I worked for a private university in Tokyo, managing international students’ admissions. I have lived in Canada and Algeria. All the experience brought me here to OIST.

I look forward to working with you all.

Saacnicteh is a Structural Biochemist specialized in protein evolution and engineering, her research focuses on how proteins adapt and evolve through mutational changes. Her current goal is to harness evolutionary principles to develop proteins with energy transfer capabilities.

Alberto is a molecular biologist specializing in protein evolution and design. He studied Genomic Sciences at the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM). His graduation project explored the impact of the Ribosome Exit Tunnel on the evolution of new proteins and included the design of a cotranslational sensor in vivo. He is now interested in applying his expertise to design novel proteins that address global challenges. In his spare time, he enjoys jogging and playing board games.

Jorge is a molecular biologist from Mexico City. He studied biology at the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM) and later pursued a master’s degree in the biochemistry program at UNAM, working in the synthetic biology laboratory at the Genomic Sciences Center (CCG) on the Morelos campus. He is interested in the design and engineering of proteins for biotechnological applications and in exploring the field of protein evolution. His hobbies include fishing, cooking, and rowing.

Im Sarai and I've been living in Mexico City for a long time.  I graduated from UNAM's Biochemical Sciences master's and PhD program. During that time, I began working with metabolic diseases and now I'm interested in diving deeper into protein function to further expand my knowledge in this field, allowing me to contribute to treatments and possibly biotechnology applications. In my free time I love to watch movies, shows and practice all kinds of sports and martial arts.