Alicia Alonso

Alicia Alonso is a full Professor in the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at the University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), where she leads research at the Biofisika Institute (CSIC, EHU). Her work focuses on the biophysical mechanisms of lipid-protein interactions in cellular membranes, particularly in the context of autophagy and membrane fusion.

Research Interests: Professor Alonso specializes in membrane biophysics, with key interests in lipid-protein interactions, autophagy, membrane fusion, sphingolipids, cholesterol, and detergent solubilization. Her research combines biophysical techniques to study model membrane systems and their relevance to cellular processes.

Recent Research Trends: Her most recent publications (2024–2025) emphasize the role of ceramide in modulating LC3/GABARAP-mediated membrane fusion during autophagy, the phase behavior of sphingolipid-cholesterol bilayers, and the interaction of amyloid-beta peptides with lipid membranes in neurodegenerative contexts. These works highlight her use of advanced techniques such as atomic force microscopy, fluorescence spectroscopy, and in vitro reconstitution assays.

Scientific Awards:

• 2017 Manuel Rico - Bruker Prize, Spanish Biophysical Society
• Member, Jakiunde Academy

Advising and Grants: While specific student names are not listed, she leads an active research laboratory. Her work is supported by the Ministry of Science, Innovation and Universities and the Basque Government, reflecting sustained funding for her investigations into membrane dynamics and autophagy.

Research Facilities: She is affiliated with the Lipid-Protein Interactions in Cellular Processes Laboratory at the Biofisika Institute, a state-of-the-art research center equipped for biophysical and biochemical studies of membrane systems.