Research Interest
I am a biogeologist with a focus on understanding the structure-function relationships in biomineralizing systems, such as eggshells, inner-ear otoconia, teeth, and bone, as well as pathological biomineralization, including aortic valve calcification, gallstones, and kidney stones. My research also investigates the role of mineral-binding extracellular matrix proteins (including their peptides and amino acids) in regulating mineralization processes to inspire the design of biomaterials with enhanced mechanical properties and applications in tissue regeneration. I employ advanced techniques, including electron microscopy, synchrotron analysis, molecular biology, biochemistry, and cell culture methods, to achieve these goals. Currently, I am the recipient of a Marie Skłodowska-Curie Global Fellowship, hosted jointly by the University of Bern (outgoing phase) and the University of Oviedo (return phase). My fellowship focuses on the mineralogical and isotopic analysis of kidney stones, correlating their composition with physiological parameters in patients with urolithiasis to improve diagnosis and develop effective treatment strategies.
Research group Aqueous Geochemistry
