Meet María Pascual García studying stem-cell models of psychiatric disorders
Moving from mouse studies to stem-cell research, the Spanish postdoc will focus on the electrophysiological mechanisms of autism-spectrum disorders at the Bio Engineering Lab of Andreas Hierlemann. After many years in the field of neuroscience in the Netherlands, María moved to Switzerland to gain more experience in the field of electrophysiology and discover the Helvetic country.
What did you know about D-BSSE before you came here, and what was your motivation to come to ETH Zurich?
I learned about D-BSSE through former colleagues that were doing research in the Basel area. When I read about the project that Dr. Schröter and Professor Hierlemann were offering I felt that this was exactly what I wanted to do after my graduation. The possibility to study neurodevelopmental disorders combined with stem-cell electrophysiology was my cue to reach out to the lab. I am very happy to have the opportunity to continue pursuing my career with the Hierlemann group!
What were your expectations, and were your expectations met since you arrived in Basel?
When I arrived in Basel, I was a bit afraid that not speaking German would be an issue. Quite the opposite! Basel is such an international place full of both outdoor and indoor activities to do. People are super friendly and always willing to help with all the paperwork. The lab is a tiny example of this international and dynamic vibe. I have been here for less than a month, but it already feels like home.
What were your first impressions…?
I had a great first impression about D-BSSE and people in Switzerland in general. People were ready to help from the very first moment. I was surprised of how quickly things were organized for me upon my arrival to the lab. After two weeks, I went with the whole lab on a retreat, which was great to get to know everyone and also have some fun outside the lab. I am really excited about the coming adventures!
“People in Basel are super friendly and always willing to help with all the paperwork. The lab is a tiny example of this international and dynamic vibe. I have been here for less than a month, but it already feels like home.”María Pascual García, Bio Engineering Lab, D-BSSE, ETH Zurich
Which research will you pursue at D-BSSE?
We aim to study and characterize different stem cell models of psychiatric disorders. In particular, I will be studying the electrophysiological properties both at single-cell and neuronal network resolution using patch-clamp and high-density microelectrode arrays.
Which hobby or private interests do you hope to pursue in Switzerland?
I have heard so many stories about swimming in the Rhine that I cannot wait to try it myself. Besides this, I am looking forward to visiting all the beautiful landscapes that Switzerland has to offer, skiing and hiking.
Many thanks, María, welcome to the D-BSSE and all the very best to you and your research!
María studied Biomedical Sciences at the Universitat Autònoma in Barcelona, Spain, in 2012 with a minor in psychobiology. After this, she moved to Amsterdam, The Netherlands, to do a Master’s in Neuroscience, including two internships during which she specialized in patch-clamp. In 2018 she started her PhD at Erasmus MC in Rotterdam studying myelination in schizophrenia mouse models. During her PhD, she was awarded several personal grants at international events, where she presented her research. In her new position as a postdoc at the Bio Engineering Lab led by Andreas Hierlemann, she intends to employ her specialist’s knowledge in electrophysiological techniques in the context of stem cell research focussing on psychiatric developmental disorders.
Learn abou the Bio Engineering Lab led by Andreas Hierlemann.