I came to KTH directly after completing my PhD in 2011, and gained my first independent funding in 2017. I became Associate Professor in November 2024! I am group leader for this team focussed on the biosynthesis and biodegradation of cell wall components in (mostly) plants. I am passionate about sustainability and try to make sure it is integrated into all of the research and the teaching/supervision that we do at KTH. I spend most of my free time reading fiction, and have another webpage that I use to share book recommendations, collect my non-academic writing, and occasionally blog about personal or academic matters. In the working-from-home periods of Pandemic Year 1, I used the free time I gained from not having to commute to hone my crafty skills, so when I’m not at work I am often at home cooking, doing crochet, embroidery, or cross-stitch.

Before the journey of my doctoral studies, I worked as a research fellow in Japan and a research assistant in Thailand. I have been actively involved in various projects related to microbial enzymes, which has ignited a deep passion within me for enzyme technology. The exploration of how each enzyme functions individually and synergistically has always fascinated me. In my PhD research, I am applying multi-omics technology to study the microbial diversity that thrives in the challenging conditions of sludge waste derived from the pulp and paper industry. Additionally, I also take advantage of omics technology to dig deep into the diverse range of enzymes present in this remarkable microbial consortium, gaining valuable insights into cleaning up sludge in an enzymatically green way. Finally, these studies would lead to the discovery of novel carbohydrate-active enzymes.

I’ve always been passionate about sustainability and about the finding ways to build a better future for our planet. After finishing my studies in Madrid, I moved to Sweden to study a Master’s degree and deepen my knowledge. Performing my master’s thesis project at LTH in Lund with plastic degrading enzymes: characterizing them to reduce plastic pellets into smaller particles that could be upcycled and implemented for further applications opened my eyes. I finally understood how research can truly make an impact, and that’s how I came across this new PhD project where I will be discovering, characterizing, and engineering carbohydrate-active enzymes with potential applications for sustainable technologies. In my free time I really enjoy immersing myself into video games, reading fantasy novels and staying active through running and hiking in nature.

It’s nice to be back! I finished my master’s degree at KTH with a thesis project with Lauren in autumn 2021, working with enzymes from C. pinenesis to characterise their use for breaking down the cell wall of oomycete species. Little did I know this would be the start of my journey diving into the wonderful world of proteins. Since then I’ve been diving deeper into the subject, working in industry at different scales, learning what tools are useful when and how to optimise the path to a working product. As the first member of the Glycolink lab team, I’m utilising my experience to work our way towards a new type of hydrogel. Outside of work I stick to the theme of protein as I bake, cook and build muscles in pole class, or I escape from reality with a novel or a binge watch.

Even before beginning my studies in Biotechnology at KTH, I had a strong interest in colloid and polymer chemistry and the formulation of products used in the food and beauty industries. When I had the opportunity during my second year at university to carry out a project with a biotech company, Glycolink immediately caught my attention. I was very happy to do the project with Glycolink, and I found the subject of hydrogels truly fascinating. Already at that stage, I knew that I wanted to reach out at a later point to become part of the team. As I was beginning my master’s studies, I felt that I had built a strong enough foundation of knowledge to continue adding new “bricks” and to contribute in a more advanced and meaningful way. The field involves many exciting aspects, and I am grateful to be a part of both R&D and production. I learn something new every single day.