Biography

I was born in Evian, a small town in the French Alps on the border with Switzerland. At 17, I came to Canada for my university studies. I obtained a bachelor’s degree (BA) in microbiology, then a master’s degree (MSc) in chemical engineering, more specially in biomaterials. During these years I focused on understanding the molecular and biochemical mechanisms that govern cell-surface interactions to design biomaterials promoting bone tissue regeneration. Curious to continue my studies in a project combining my knowledge in microbiology, materials engineering and cellular/tissue engineering, I completed a PhD in chemical engineering on antimicrobial materials. In partnership with a Quebec company, this project consisted of developing a surface material with antimicrobial properties, in order to fight against the transmission of pathogens via contaminated surfaces, without risk for users’ skin. This allowed me to develop in-depth expertise in the evaluation of biological risks for humans at the cellular and tissue level (in vitro cytotoxicity, in vitro and in vivo skin irritation and hypersensitivity, systemic toxicity, etc.) when using various medical devices. In connection with this project, I also participated in the development of a new ISO standard evaluating the properties of antimicrobial materials.

Research interests

Since fall 2023, I have joined the Landry lab. I will work on the genetic evolution of antifungal resistance using the model yeast S. cerevisiae, focusing on the mutational analysis of genes involved in resistance to many antifungals, such as Pdr1.