Gracia Mendoza Cantos: “Scientific knowledge is generated with determination, patience and imagination”

The IIS Aragón researcher talks in this interview about her work leading the 'AMIB: Advanced Materials in Biomedicine' Group (GIIS102), and what her day-to-day life is like

Gracia Mendoza Cantos, doctor in biology, He found his way into biomedical research in an unconventional way. Although she was not initially attracted to this vocation, she soon discovered in biomedical research, especially in the clinical application of it, a exciting challenge that motivated her to continue in this field.

“My case is somewhat atypical, since initially it was not vocational, but in a short time biomedical research, with a clear focus on clinical application, represented a challenge and a stimulus to continue in this field”

From 2004Gracia Mendoza Cantos has dedicated her career to research. But it wasn't until January 2020 when, thanks to Miguel Servet contract (ISCIII Call), She became the main researcher of the IIS Aragón group Advanced Materials in biomedicine (AMiB). With a previous career in various Aragonese organizations dedicated to biomedical research, his arrival at IIS Aragón marked a new chapter in his career, allowing him to develop projects that combine basic and applied research for the benefit of health.

What lines of research are being worked on in your group?

We work in Nanobiomedicine, specifically in the design and synthesis of new nanosystems such as drug delivery systems. We apply this technology to 2 main lines of research: new therapies for the treatment of infections, as well as the treatment of joint diseases, mainly osteoarthritis.

What is the main challenge your research group is currently facing?

The biggest challenge in research is obtaining resources, both economic, human and infrastructure.

Any ongoing projects that you would like to highlight?

We currently work on the Strengthens Program, awarded in 2023 to IIS Aragón to strengthen collaboration between IIS Aragón groups and emerging groups, like ours, with the clear objective of consolidating the generation of cutting-edge scientific knowledge aimed at improving health, and to face the main health challenges of society.

What profiles make up your research team?

Our team is multidisciplinary given that we are a group that works on lines of research based on nanotechnology with biomedical application. Our training is complementary, with profiles with training chemistry, biochemistry, biology and biotechnology.

Why should companies bet on research, and specifically, on your group?

Our group addresses health challenges from a technological point of view which is essential for its real application in the clinic and, therefore, also has enormous potential for the industrial development of new therapeutic strategies.

Advice for someone starting out in healthcare research?

Manage frustration and be resilient, nothing (luckily) comes right the first time, Scientific knowledge is generated with determination, patience and imagination.