Novas
Spotlight on Rosana Álvarez
We are proud to launch our “Women in Science: Shaping the Future of Science” series, featuring Rosana Álvarez Rodríguez, a researcher from the Organic Chemistry Innovation and Development Group (ORCHID) at the CINBIO Research Center.
Rosana has built a remarkable scientific journey driven by curiosity and constant reinvention. From her early work in synthetic chemistry at the University of Vigo to her transition into theoretical and computational chemistry, her career has been shaped by international collaborations and a willingness to explore new frontiers. In this profile, she reflects on the experiences that defined her path, her evolution as a researcher and mentor, and her ongoing commitment to advancing chemistry through interdisciplinary approaches.
Get to know Rosana's journey and see how her work is contributing to the future of biomedical research. Her CV is available here.
💡 Would you like to take part in this initiative? Check out the profile questions and share your own story with us.
Motivation and Origins
“What drew me to science instead of other disciplines? I remember two “special” toys that accompanied me throughout my childhood: LEGO and a microscope. From a very young age, I was fascinated by science, and my father always encouraged and nurtured my curiosity.”
Research and Social Impact
“How would I explain my current project to a 10-year-old? To turn a light on and off, you need a switch. Well, we design tiny switches, so small that they cannot be seen with the naked eye, capable of activating different mechanisms with applications in areas such as nutrition and the sustainable development of agriculture, among others.”
Role Models and Mentorship
“One of the qualities I most admire in my mentors, and that I try to emulate in my own work, is their imagination and ambition to advance science, together with their ability to develop projects with scientific rigor and accuracy.”
Career Path and Gender Equality
“Balancing personal and family life with the high demands of a research career is truly challenging, but it becomes possible to find a way forward thanks to the support of family and friends, as well as the understanding and collaboration of the research team.”
Future Vision and Inspiration
“If I weren’t a scientist, I would have liked to work in a library or a bookshop, as I really enjoy books and reading is one of my passions. I would also have liked to have studied mathematics. ”
