With my foundation in biomediscal sciences (BSc., 2021, VU) and neurosciences (MSc., 2023, VU), I have developed a keen interest in the molecular composition of synapses and how this shapes synaptic diversity, circuit function and behaviour. In November 2023, I joined the Molecular Engrams team of Dr. Priyanka Rao Ruiz as a PhD student to further investigate these topics.
In my project, I will focus on the characterization of synaptic subpopulations involved in specific behaviours. By combining proteomics data with large-scale high-resolution imaging of these synaptic subpopulations, I aim to characterize the spatiomolecular profile and molecular heterogeneity of these synaptic subpopulations of interest. Alongside this, I am part of a collaborative effort in investigating the molecular mechanisms implicated in Alcohol Use Disorder, focussing mostly on the synaptic proteomic adaptations within the mesocorticolimbic system.