Projects
Bridging the gap between academia and society is a fundamental mission for any researcher. Through outreach initiatives and collaborative projects, knowledge can transcend institutional boundaries and reach those who can benefit the most from scientific advancements.
Scientific Dissemination
I participate in the "Grupo de Investigadores Latitud Cero", a collective of scientists working across diverse fields of physics and related disciplines. Our goal is to foster connections between academia and the broader community, promoting scientific literacy and strengthening fundamental research in Ecuador. This vision is realized through research projects, outreach events, and partnerships between Ecuadorian and international institutions.
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One of our flagship initiatives is the EPIC (Escuela de Programación para Investigación Científica) summer school series, co-organized by several universities and research institutions, with support from ICTP's Physics Without Frontiers program. The fourth edition of EPIC will introduce young researchers to essential data analysis techniques using Python and Julia. Held at the Universidad Internacional del Ecuador (UIDE) in Quito, this program not only enhances technical skills but also fosters scientific collaboration in an inspiring environment surrounded by Ecuador’s natural wonders.
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Scientific dissemination is more than just communication—it is an act of bridging worlds. By engaging in outreach, we not only share knowledge but also refine our own understanding, shaping our perspectives through dialogue with diverse audiences. The challenge lies not only in making science comprehensible but also in making it relevant and inspiring.
Momentum
As part of the CSIC Momentum program, I am currently engaged in advanced training in digital competencies to further develop my expertise in biomedical data analysis. This initiative, designed to attract and retain highly skilled professionals, aligns perfectly with my research interests in artificial intelligence applications for biomedical imaging.
At the imAIgene-lab, I focus on tumor heterogeneity and morphokinetic analysis using live imaging techniques. Our research aims to develop accessible, automated tools for processing and analyzing time-lapse microscopy data, enabling us to investigate how cell migration and chromosomal instability contribute to tumor aggressiveness and resistance to therapy. By integrating AI-driven analysis with biomedical research, we strive to enhance diagnostic precision and therapeutic strategies in oncology.
Biomechanics of the Eye and Myopia Research
Understanding the biomechanical properties of the eye is essential for developing new treatments for ocular diseases such as myopia, a growing global public health concern. My research focuses on the role of the sclera, the eye’s main supportive tissue, in modulating myopia progression. By employing deformation imaging and optical coherence elastography, I have analyzed the mechanical responses of scleral tissue in different species and anatomical regions of the eye.
My findings indicate that scleral stiffness varies significantly based on location and structural composition, impacting how the tissue deforms under mechanical stress. These insights are crucial for understanding how biomechanical changes contribute to myopia development. Additionally, I have investigated cross-linking techniques, such as Rose Bengal-green light and Riboflavin-ultraviolet light treatments, to strengthen the sclera and potentially slow axial elongation, a key factor in myopia progression.
The intersection of engineering and biomedical research has guided my scientific journey. By applying optical and mechanical analysis techniques, I strive to unravel the complexities of ocular biomechanics. Developing innovative solutions for myopia treatment not only advances fundamental science but also holds promise for improving global eye health.