Dr. Rosa María Martínez-Espinosa is a distinguished scholar and leader in the field of biochemistry with significant contributions to microbial metabolism and biotechnology applications. She currently holds the position of Full Professor of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at the University of Alicante, Spain, a promotion she received in 2020 after joining the institution as a Lecturer in 2011. Dr. Martínez-Espinosa earned her PhD in Biology from the University of Alicante, where she was honored with the PhD Special Award for her exceptional research. Her academic journey included postdoctoral training supported by prestigious programs including the Generalitat Valenciana, European Federation of Biochemical Societies, and the José Castillejo National Program, which laid the foundation for her internationally recognized research career.
Dr. Martínez-Espinosa's pioneering research focuses on the metabolism of extremophile microorganisms and the purification and characterization of enzymes with industrial applications, resulting in over 100 scientific publications in indexed journals with a Google Scholar H-index of 24. In 2017, she established the Applied Biochemistry research group, which has become recognized for optimizing protocols for genetic manipulation of microorganisms and characterizing gene regulation mechanisms in challenging environments. Her innovative work extends to the production of carotenoids and the development of bioremediation processes for contaminated water and soil using microorganisms, demonstrating significant practical applications in environmental sustainability. The research impact of her laboratory is evidenced by over 200 contributions to national and international conferences, 70 book chapters, and a patent that has advanced biotechnological approaches for industrial applications.
Beyond her research accomplishments, Dr. Martínez-Espinosa serves as a valued scientific evaluator for numerous organizations, including participation in the review of European projects under the H2020 and Horizon Europe programs, and assessment of national research proposals in Spain. She contributes to academic quality assurance as a member of expert panels for degree verification and accreditation through agencies including ANECA, ACPUA, AQUIB, and DEVA, demonstrating her leadership in higher education standards. Dr. Martínez-Espinosa's expertise is sought after for evaluating R+D+i projects for certification and accreditation purposes, reflecting her standing as a respected authority in her field. She continues to advance interdisciplinary research at the intersection of biochemistry and environmental biotechnology, with her laboratory poised to make further contributions to sustainable industrial processes and environmental remediation through innovative microbial applications.
