Cristina Jiménez-López

Chemist by training with a PhD in Biochemistry, positioned at the interface between chemistry and biology. Experienced in applying chemical, analytical, and synthetic biology approaches to develop technologies that address fundamental biological questions. Experienced in organic synthesis, lipid chemistry, membrane biochemistry, analytical methods, and quantitative data analysis. Skilled in operating and managing analytical instruments, advanced microscopy techniques, and basic Python-based image-analysis workflows. I like to be challenged and I find the most joy in developing creative and practical solutions.

Molecule Design, Synthesis & Assay Development

Gained during PhD research

• Designed and validated biochemical and analytical workflows, from molecule synthesis to functional testing, resulting in novel phospholipid probes for cell membrane research.
• Developed an in-vitro biomimetic cell membrane platform to investigate the functional role of lipid organization and dynamics.
• Developed microscopy- and analytics-based assays for quantitative biomolecule analysis and method validation.
• Experienced in using confocal microscopy to study lipid dynamics and membrane organization in synthetic model system and cells.

Data Analysis, Scientific Communication & Writing

Gained during PhD research

• Performed quantitative image analysis and data extraction using FIJI/ImageJ and Python (segmentation, feature recognition, basic automation).
• Authored a state-of the art review on caged lipid probes.
• Presented chemical and biochemical research to interdisciplinary audiences via talks and posters.
• Skilled in creating clear, structured and traceable documentation for experiments, protocols and SOPs.

Cross Collaboration & Translation

• Supported multiple projects through the design and synthesis of tailored molecules, contributing to peer-reviewed publications—including bifunctional lipids enabling the first visualization of lipid metabolism in cells (Nature, 2025; DOI: 10.1038/s41586-025-09432-x) and full synthesis of O-NBE photo-cleavable cross-linkers for stabilizing protein complexes in MS workflows (ChemBioChem, 2024; DOI: 10.1002/cbic.202400620).
• Co-wrote of a funded ERC Proof of Concept proposal to translate lipid probes into market-ready research kits for commercialization.

Laboratory & Instrument Maintenance

• Responsible for maintenance and oversight of the Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) and High-Pressure Liquid Chromatography (HPLC), including direct communication with the manufacturer for troubleshooting and service coordination.
• Responsible for the organic synthesis laboratory operations and maintenance.

Formulation Development & Industrial R&D Exposure

Gained as an Intern, Colgate-Palmolive, R&D, Mexico City (February, 2016-Jan, 2017)

• Formulated and optimized surfactant-based detergent prototypes, adjusting anionic/non-ionic ratios, co-solvents, and formulation pH to improve cleaning performance and stability of handwashing liquids for the North American market; conducted 1–5 L bench-scale optimization and supported scale-up to 80 L for pilot production.
• Strengthened skills in method validation, quality control, and scientific documentation within a regulated industrial R&D environment.
• Collaborated with cross-functional teams to troubleshoot formulation issues and implement improvements that enhanced product robustness.

Best Poster Award – Spetses FEBS-EMBO Advanced Lecture Course | 2022
“Lipids, Proteins and their Interactions in Organelle Biology”

International Research Internship Scholarship | 2018
Fully funded 3-month research internship at the Max Planck Institute for Molecular Cell Biology and Genetics, Dresden, Germany

Excellence Scholarship (100% Tuition Coverage) | 2011
Thompson Rivers University, Kamloops, Canada

• Former volunteer paramedic on ambulance emergencies; Certified EMT-Basic
• Delegate in debates of Model United Nations (MUNs) during university studies discussing environmental, political and social topics.
• Film geek and poetry reader with a deep love for sourdough experiments and mountain trails; trained Irish dancer who also competed from time to time.