RESEARCH

Understanding Yeast Biology

From industrial biotechnology to fungal pathogenesis, we investigate how yeasts adapt, interact and shape health, industry and the environment

Research

Yeasts as friends or foes

Yeasts influence our lives in remarkable ways, driving industrial innovation while also causing challenging human infections. At Mira's Lab, we investigate both sides of yeast biology, combining molecular microbiology, genetics, genomics and physiology to uncover the mechanisms that govern their behaviour.

Our work spans biotechnology, host–microbe interactions and fungal pathogenesis, with the goal of translating scientific discoveries into innovative solutions.

Biotechnology & synthetic biology

Yeasts for Biotechnology

We engineer yeasts to develop sustainable biotechnological solutions for industry and the environment:

  • Non-conventional yeasts
  • Metabolic engineering
  • Synthetic biology
  • Food fermentation
  • Microbial cell factories
  • Value-added compounds
Fungal pathogens & antimicrobial resistance

Yeasts in Human Health

We investigate pathogenic yeasts and beneficial microorganisms to understand fungal adaptation, the emergence of antifungal resistance and develop innovative therapeutic strategies.

  • Clinical and environmental Candida species
  • Antifungal resistance and cross-resistance
  • Yeast adaptation across diverse environments
  • Host–pathogen interactions
  • LactobacillusCandida interactions
  • Natural product-based antifungal discovery

Research at a Glance

Combining fundamental science with real-world impact

12+

Research projects

Projects developed across diverse areas of yeast biology

60+

Scientific publications

Scientific articles published in international peer-reviewed journals

55+

Students supervised

PhD, MSc and BSc students trained and supported by the group

15+

Collaborations

Partnerships with national and international institutions