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Biography
Fernando is a molecular and genetic biologist with experience investigating the molecular and genetics basis of cellular circuits and how molecular perturbances underpin major atypical behaviours. He takes advantage of the model system Caenorhabditis elegans as experimental platform to investigate the functional role of genes driving complex behaviours. Fernando's research interest lies on C. elegans, plant parasitic nematode species and related expertise in invertebrate molecular neurobiology. This has well positioned him to participate in drug discovery and mode of action programmes for novel antiparasitics, through projects in collaboration with the agrochemical industry, as well as it has led Fernando to improve prospects for parasitic nematodes, characterizing the cue-dependent behaviour in plant parasitic nematodes understanding the neurobiology of host plant invasion, through the testing of libraries of compounds with potential antiparasitic effects.