Our interviewee is Cristina V. López Gallego, PhD candidate at Leiden University, the Netherlands. Cristina received a FEBS 60th Anniversary Award and the 1st place flash presentation award at the FEBS Advanced Course Les Houches-Telluride Workshop on Protein Dynamics (2–7 June 2024) in Les Houches, France.

Tell us about your research topic/work. What project(s) are you working on? What is the aim of your study?

My research is focused on the interplay between evolution and protein dynamics applied to antibiotic resistance. Specifically, we study the evolution mechanisms of a model protein called BlaC, a β-lactamase from Mycobacterium tuberculosis, to elucidate the function of non-catalytic residues. This approach integrates experimental techniques such as NMR, kinetics, and thermal stability measurements with molecular dynamics simulations. We aim to understand how these residues contribute to regulating protein dynamics on highly evolvable proteins involved in antibiotic resistance. This knowledge can help in developing long-lasting solutions to this global health concern.

Who or what inspired you to choose a career in science?

I have always been fascinated by the world around me. Since I was a child, nature amazed me, constantly raising new questions. That curiosity pushed me to find the answers, which ultimately drove me to pursue a career in science.

How did you learn about the FEBS Advanced Course? Why did you choose this course to attend?

I am a member of the Netherlands Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (NVBMB),  which is a FEBS Constituent Society, and from time to time I check the upcoming events. However, this one was particularly recommended by my supervisor, Marcellus Ubbink.

How does attending this course influence your present and future plans? What are the benefits of attending the FEBS Advanced Course?

It was such a pleasure to meet senior scientists who study protein dynamics with many different methods, and be able to have very lively discussions with them in a casual way. Additionally, as a PhD candidate, it was very enriching to meet other junior scientists in the same situation and share experiences. This FEBS Advanced Course was a great opportunity to expand my knowledge about the field and to amplify my professional network.

What work were you presenting at the FEBS Advanced Course?

On the topic of “Exploring enzyme dynamics regulation for antibiotic innovation”. I study the residues surrounding the active site of an enzyme called BlaC, which degrades β-lactam antibiotics—the most commonly used class of antibiotics. This project focuses on the role of these residues regulating the dynamics of the protein in the context of protein evolution.

How does it feel to receive a FEBS 60th Anniversary Award at a FEBS Advanced course as recognition for your work? How do you see this Award influencing your career and future?

I'm truly grateful to receive this Award from FEBS. This recognition not only validates my work but also provides valuable visibility that I believe will enhance my professional opportunities and future career growth.

What is your advice to aspiring students/scientists?

Don't let an opportunity pass you by because of your fears. If you never try, you will never succeed. You only need to learn to move forward, even when you are scared.

Where do you envision the future of your career?

I will trust my curiosity and ambition to guide me in discovering my own professional path.

For more information on upcoming FEBS Advanced Courses and available travel grants, visit the FEBS website.

Top photo by Saumyak Mukherjee.