Dr. Antonella Locascio, as molecular biologist, possesses an extended expertise in plant physiology and molecular biology. Holding a Bachelor's degree from the University of Padova and a PhD in Biotechnology, she is currently Professor and researcher at University Cardenal Herrera UCH-CEU. During her career, she has applied her molecular biology expertise to human, plant, and microbiological research.  Dr. Locascio’s scientific skills encompass transcriptomics, proteomics, genomics and techniques of microscopy. In recent years, she get specialized in comparative transcriptome studies, particularly through analysis of RNA-seq data, leading to discoveries in gene regulation patterns affected by antimicrobial peptides in yeasts and fungi.  Her research has stood out for revealing key mechanisms in the regulation of plant development, including the identification of proteins involved in stress response and hormonal regulation in plants, as widely demonstrated by her track of records. Dr. Locascio has demonstrated leadership in generating ideas and formulating hypotheses when enrolled as post-doc. Even if not as IP, but member of research group, she contributed in securing funding for innovative research projects, by writing parts of the proposal and providing the bases of scientific evidences to support the aims of the projects. Her postdoctoral experience in private enterprise (Bionos Biotech-Hospital La Fe) has further developed her gene expression and post-transcriptional study skills. The ability to communicate her findings is reflected in numerous scientific publications and presentations at international conferences in which her actively participated. The high level of internationalization of her publications demonstrate her active commitment with promoting knowledge exchange and advancements, in her field.

 Dr. Antonella Locascio's contributions extend beyond the laboratory, encompassing a variety of activities aimed at benefiting society and fostering innovation. Through her research on antifungal proteins, she has contributed in pave the way for the development of novel strategies for combating fungal diseases in agriculture and potentially improving food security. Moreover, her involvement in projects such as "Preventing HLB Epidemics for ensuring citrus survival in Europe"; "ENIGmA: EXPLORING NOVEL PLANT-TO-PLANT INTERCOMMUNICATION" and "Characterization of VAMP2.1 and SCAMP5 proteins as potential targets of plant drought tolerance strategies", has aimed at addressing critical challenges in agriculture, including citrus greening disease, thereby supporting sustainable agricultural practices and safeguarding crop production. Her involvement with industry partners, such as Bionos Biotech S.L. , have facilitated the translation of scientific discoveries into practical applications, leading to the development of innovative biotechnological solutions for healthcare. Furthermore, her engagement in outreach activities, including seminars, congresses and workshops, has served to raise awareness about the importance of plant science and biotechnology in addressing global challenges.

  Dr Locascio has been instrumental in nurturing the academic and professional growth of young researchers through her mentorship and supervision of various projects. Additionally, she has guided projects focusing on physiological and molecular characterizations of plant physiology (see on cv), reflecting her expertise in plant research and biotechnology. Perhaps most notably, the enduring impact of Dr. Locascio's mentorship is evident in the continued success of her students. As they embark on their doctoral journeys in various esteemed institutions, contributing actively to plant science. Dr. Locascio has continuously expanded her expertise through specialized courses in data analysis, experimental design, and bioinformatics tools. Their proficiency in R software and other analytical techniques underscores their dedication to staying at the forefront of scientific advancements. Due to her academic and professional trajectory, in 2019 Dr. Locascio obtained accreditation as a Contracted Doctoral Professor from the National Agency for Quality Assessment and Accreditation (ANECA). Since 2023, she initiated a research collaboration with Dr. Eloy Bejarano's group (UCH-CEU), supporting in mentoring 2 PhD students. Dr. Locascio serves as a panel evaluator in the H2020 European Community Research Program, Life. Her scientific competence is also recognized by international scientific journals with which she collaborates as an Editor (Journal of Plant Growth Regulator) and as a peer reviewer of articles.