Manuel Alfaro Email & Phone Number

Dublin, Condado De Dublin, Irlanda

NIBRT is a global centre of excellence for training and research in bioprocessing. As a Scientist at Formulation and Stability Laboratory I am responsible for the design and development of nucleic acid-based drug delivery. My main role involves leading the R&D efforts to create innovative drug delivery systems that enhance the stability of nucleic acids, focusing on lipid nanoparticle formulations. I design and execute stability studies to evaluate and optimize formulations. Utilizing cutting-edge analytical techniques such as HPLC, LC-MS, Circular Dichroism (CD), Capillary Electrophoresis, and Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS), I characterize the drug delivery platforms, providing critical data on their properties and performance.In addition to conducting experimental work, I analyze complex datasets to derive meaningful insights, author comprehensive technical reports, and contribute to peer-reviewed scientific articles.

Dublin, County Dublin, Ireland

Performed comprehensive data analyses and authored technical reports and scientific articles to document findings and contribute to the advancement of research objectives.

Valinhos, São Paulo, Brasil

Entourage is a pharmaceutical R&D company. At Entourage, I was responsible for overseeing Research and Development (R&D) activities, including the formulation and validation of analytical methodologies for oral delivery systems. I collaborated with Contract Research and Manufacturing Organizations (CRMOs) to execute pilot batches and conduct pre-clinical and clinical trials involving SEDDS (Self-Emulsifying Drug Delivery Systems) formulations. This role provided me with valuable experience in managing multidisciplinary projects, working closely with technical teams, and gaining a deep understanding of pharmacokinetics for oral formulations.

Florianópolis, Santa Catarina, Brazil

PhD ThesisTitle: Bioactive nanostructured matrices for application in peripheral nerve regeneration.My thesis focused on developing of nanostructured scaffolds for sustained drug delivery, specifically targeting nerve growth factor (NGF) release for nerve tissue engineering. I optimized the electrospinning process using polycaprolactone (PCL) and polyethylene glycol (PEG) blends to create nanofibers with controlled architecture and mechanical properties. Cell culture studies confirmed the cytocompatibility of the scaffolds, while in vitro experiments demonstrated the successful incorporation and sustained release of NGF. The scaffolds effectively released NGF over time, promoting neuronal differentiation and neurite outgrowth in PC12 cells. showing potential for sustained NGF delivery applications.Published four peer-reviewed articles and two book chapters.

Florianópolis, Santa Catarina, Brazil

MSc ThesisTitle: The involvement of monoamine transporters in serotonin uptake in veinsMy Master's research focused on the role of serotonin (5-HT) in vascular reactivity. I investigated the mechanisms of 5-HT uptake and its modulation by various substances affecting serotonin homeostasis. Using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), I quantified 5-HT and its metabolite, 5-HIAA, and studied the influence of inhibitors like fluoxetine, imipramine, and decynium-22 on serotonin uptake. The results revealed that serotonin uptake in veins occurs via organic cation transporters (OCTs) independent of the serotonin transporter (SERT) and other transporters. My findings also suggest a potential intracellular role of serotonin in vascular contraction and provide insights into serotonin’s complex interactions in vascular physiology.

São Paulo E Região, Brasil

Aché, one of the top five pharmaceutical corporations in Brazil, provided me with the opportunity to contribute as a formulation scientist. In this role, I designed and developed oral solid dosage formulations, offering technical support for tablet production and leading process optimization efforts to improve efficiency and ensure high product quality.

São Paulo E Região, Brasil

Dorsay-Monange Pharmaceutical Industry, now part of Hypera SA—one of Brazil's largest pharmaceutical companies—provided me with the opportunity to excel as a formulation scientist. In this role, I optimized formulations to address stability challenges and led process optimization initiatives for oral dosage formulations, ensuring improved product performance and efficiency.

São Paulo E Região, Brasil

Bergamo was acquired by the multinational pharmaceutical company Amgen in 2011. As a Production Analyst at Bergamo, I monitored the production of solid and liquid formulations to ensure alignment with the production schedule. Additionally, I oversaw the tablet manufacturing process, ensuring strict adherence to quality standards, and regulatory compliance.

Postgraduate Degree, Applied Statistics

Professional Certificate, Project Management

Phd Biotechnology & Biosciences, Nanotechnology

Pharmacology Msc, Pharmacology

Industrial Pharmacist, Pharmaceutical Sciences