About me
I’m a researcher working at the interface of biophysics, photochemistry, and pigment biology, with a primary focus on the photophysical and photochemical behavior of melanin. My work is focused mainly on melanin's shift from photoprotection to photoreactivity and understanding the mechanisms behind the process. This mechanistic perspective is particularly relevant for understanding light-induced melanoma, where melanin-mediated photochemistry may contribute to oxidative stress, DNA damage, and altered cellular signaling following UV and visible light exposure.
I also investigate air-pollution–related phototoxicity, focusing on how PM2.5 components can become even more harmful under light exposure. In these studies, I examine light-amplified skin toxicity by combining controlled solar-simulated irradiation protocols with molecular and cellular readouts of oxidative stress and damage pathways and spectroscopic observation of light-induced mechanisms.
In parallel, I am building Python-based analytical tools tailored not only for photophysical and photobiological lab
In addition to research, I am actively involved in teaching and mentoring. I supervise student research projects and contribute to laboratory and theoretical courses covering (photo(bio))physics, data analysis and the use of AI tools in research. Methodologically, my work integrates EPR spectroscopy, optical spectroscopies, time-resolved singlet oxygen detection and cell-based models, with an emphasis on connecting physical measurements to biologically meaningful endpoints.