Functional Genomics of the Hidden Repetitive Genome in Paediatric Cancer

I lead the Chromatin Dynamics in Cancer and Cell Fate group at the University of Barcelona. Our research focuses on functional genomics, chromatin regulation and the molecular mechanisms underlying cancer cell plasticity, progression and therapy response, with a particular interest in paediatric cancer.

A distinctive focus of our work is the hidden repetitive genome, an underexplored layer of cancer biology comprising poorly characterised repetitive and non-coding genomic elements that are often missed by conventional genomic approaches. We are investigating how dysregulation of this genomic compartment may influence tumour cell states, evolution and therapy response, and reveal previously unrecognised functional dependencies.

We combine functional perturbation approaches, molecular and cellular assays, transcriptomics, chromatin profiling, bioinformatics and patient-derived data. Through established collaborations with CNAG, IDIBELL and VHIR, we also have access to complementary expertise in long-read transcriptomics, neuroblastoma biology and translational/clinical research.

We are developing a paediatric cancer proof-of-concept using neuroblastoma to investigate a cancer-dysregulated repetitive-genome regulatory axis, while remaining interested in extending this concept to other paediatric malignancies and complementary tumour models.

I am interested in joining or co-developing a multidisciplinary consortium addressing functional genomics, tumour evolution, treatment resistance and novel therapeutic vulnerabilities. I would also be open to leading a scientific work package or thematic research branch focused on chromatin regulation and the hidden repetitive genome.