Meet the team | Oller Salvia Program

ABOUT ME

Publications

Benjamí Oller-Salvia - Program leader

I am a devoted educator and researcher. My scientific interests lie in merging chemistry and bioengineering to develop biomolecules and nanosystems for biomedical applications. I am an Assistant Professor at IQS and I hold "La Caixa" Junior Leader Fellowship. I lead the research program on Peptide & Protein Engineering for Targeted Nanotherapeutics (PPTN) associated to the Materials Engineering Group (GEMAT).

I am driven by the wish to achieve a better and more sustainable world by means of technological and social transformation. I keep my energy balance through martial arts, running, hiking, and gardening.

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Cristina Díaz - Postdoctoral scientist

I obtained my PhD in Organic Chemistry from the University of Barcelona, conducting the research at IRB Barcelona. Then, I moved to Switzerland for a 3-year postdoc at EPFL focussed on generating novel peptide-based therapeutics using phage display. At IQS, I am developing antibody-based therapies to selectively treat brain cancers.

In my free time, I enjoy cycling, dancing and playing sports, as well as reading, painting and watching TV series.

Roberta (Beba) Lucchi - PhD candidate in Bioengineering

I come from Rome with a Biotechnology background. At IQS, I will be working on the development of nano-biotherapeutics for systemic delivery to brain cancer. In the future, I would like to use all my knowledge to increase our understanding of cancer and to contribute to the development of innovative and more efficient therapies.

In my free time, I enjoy visiting historical places and art museums, as well as relaxing in nature, reading and cooking.

Maria Celia (Mace) Lucana Meneses - PhD candidate in Bioengineering

I am a chemist and I am working on the development of peptides for biomedical applications. More precisely, I focus on the generation of cyclic peptides for the targeting of nanotherapeutics.

In my spare time, I enjoy embroidery, knitting, and drawing. I also like music; I play the clarinet and I am learning to play the guitar.

Montserrat (Montse) Escobar - PhD candidate in Bioengineering

I am a biotechnologist from Mexico City. I am passionate about everything related to Medical Biotechnology, especially intended for cancer treatment. My work focuses on the development of activatable antibodies to direct therapies against brain tumors.

In my leisure time, I enjoy reading, drawing, learning new languages and knowing about other cultures. My favorite sport is swimming, but I also enjoy running and long walks surrounded by nature.

Sandra Prat Castro - MSc candidate in Pharmaceutical Chemistry

I am a totally vocational pharmacist, I love science and I’m interested in both the chemical and biological domains. I would love to become a great researcher and contribute to the advancement of new therapies. Right now I am working on my master's degree project based on the development of activatable antibody targeting therapies for drug delivery to cancer cells.

In my free time I like to practice a wide variety of sports, mainly running, gym, paddle and ballet. I love both the beach and the mountains. In addition, I love to spend time with my family and friends and I will never get tired of discovering new corners of Barcelona.

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Yolanda Arruga Torres - MSc candidate in Pharmaceutical Chemistry

I am an IQS chemistry student currently dabbling in nanobiology as part of a joint effort to develop a possible treatment for glioblastoma. I hope to contribute with my chemical knowledge to solve challenges in nanomedicine coatings and BBB-shuttle peptides.

I wind down by designing and making clothes and jewellery, as well as baking or cooking. Occasionally, I also enjoy riding and caring for horses.

The PPTN Group is associated with GEMAT, a consolidated group recognized by the Catalan Government (SGR).

Former team members

Former master students