Maria Borja Gonzalez

I am a biomedical researcher with a strong interest in understanding gene expression control mechanisms and developing therapeutic strategies for currently incurable diseases. I graduated in Biochemistry from the University of Córdoba and completed my PhD at the University of Galway in Dr Goljanek-Whysall’s group, supported by the Hardiman and Irish Research Council scholarships. My research specialises in epigenetic regulation and RNA-based therapeutics, with a particular focus on microRNAs and oxidised microRNAs (oxi-miRs) as emerging therapeutic targets. I also investigate mitochondrial homeostasis and its role in muscle dysfunction during ageing, cancer cachexia and neurodegenerative conditions.

My expertise spans microRNA biology, primary cell culture, animal models and omics-based approaches relevant to ageing, cachexia and neurodegeneration. I am currently a postdoctoral researcher on a JPND-funded international project developing RNA-based and gene-editing strategies for rare and neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease.

I have published in leading journals and actively disseminate my research at international conferences. Alongside my research, I am committed to teaching, mentoring and fostering a positive and inclusive research culture, reflected on my contributions to undergraduate and postgraduate teaching and training of national and international students in laboratory-based research. I actively contribute to outreach and inclusivity initiatives, including my role as social media manager of REACT-Enlight Network and on the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Committee at the University of Galway.