I am a molecular microbiologist, with a PhD in Genetics from the Institut Pasteur. My background is in biotechnology, more specifically in CRISPR technologies. I am currently working on understanding the molecular mechanisms that govern successful interactions between plasmids and their microbial hosts. My two main professional interests are the translation of lab-based biotechnology to health and the impact of science in society. I believe in empowerment through knowledge and fight for a future in which the gap in knowledge between the scientific community and society is less pronounced.I am also the Creative Editor of Native Scientist, an award winning non-profit organisation (MIT Innovators under 35 Europe award) that tackles educational disadvantage through science outreach. It promotes language and science learning for children through interaction with scientists that speak in their mother tongue.Apart from science, I have a great passion for Art (specially the impressionists, post-impressionists, modern and contemporary art). I am currently working on a comics series about life in a lab and figuring out how to watercolour (check them out, instagram.com/aliciacalvovillamanan/). If we grab a coffee I will probably speak to you a lot about feminism, green economy and how they are the only way to envision a fair future!