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Interview with Dr Beatriz Martin Fernandez
Posted 17 November 2011
Chance reading in Spain leads researcher to Prince Henry’s Institute
Dr Beatriz Martin Fernandez was completing her PhD at Complutense University of Madrid when she read a paper by Senior Research Fellow, Professor John Funder. She tells how her interest in cardiovascular endocrinology and a desire to visit Australia led to a six month sabbatical with PHI’s Steroid Receptor Laboratory.
Tell us about your research and how it led you to PHI
My PhD focused on the effects of aldosterone and its impact on cardiovascular disease and hypertension, as part of my studies I had a scholarship to spend up to six-months working in a laboratory anywhere in the world. I discovered PHI and its interest in this area after reading a paper written by Professor John Funder. I was excited by the Steroid Receptor team’s research into potential therapies targeting aldosterone and having long wanted to visit Australia, contacted Professor Funder. He spoke to the head of the Steroid Receptor Laboratory, Professor Fuller and it all fell into place from there.
How has your time at PHI benefited your research? How does research here differ from your experience in Spain?
I have really enjoyed working with the team at Prince Henry’s Institute, you have a great research environment here and the people are so nice. As I completed my PhD with the Department of Physiology at the Complutense University of Madrid, my research took a pathophysological approach, whereas the team at PHI is more interested in the molecular. Bringing together these two approaches has allowed me to delve more deeply into the role of aldosterone in heart disease and hypertension. This has given me valuable insights into what is happening and why. I have also enjoyed the opportunity to gain exposure to new research techniques.
Do you think you will continue this collaboration?
During my time with the Steroid Receptor Laboratory we have written a collaborative paper. Given the strong links between our research and objectives, I would like to maintain the partnership and to continue learning from their different approach to this area of science.
Why did you become a scientist and what do you want to achieve?
I have always had a desire to know why and to delve under the surface of life. I love the journey of discovery in science and the opportunity to keep building on my knowledge. As I continue my career, I hope to develop a better understanding of aldosterone and its link to disease and contribute to the development of improved therapies and treatments. Like all scientists I hope to be part of that big discovery.