Rocio Ochoa-Fernandez

Rocio Ochoa-Fernandez is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences at the University of Copenhagen's Faculty of Science, specializing in the Section for Plant Biochemistry. Her research focuses on plant synthetic biology and optogenetics, developing innovative tools to understand and control plant cellular processes for sustainable bioproduction applications.

Education:

• PhD in Molecular and Synthetic Biology, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf (2015-2020), Thesis: "Development of optogenetic tools for Plant Synthetic Biology"
• B.Sc & M.Sc in Biotechnology, Polytechnic University of Valencia (2009-2014), Thesis: "Development of modular and orthogonal logic gates for Plant Synthetic Biology by GoldenBraid Cloning system"

Research Focus:

Dr. Ochoa-Fernandez investigates how plants integrate complex input signals and respond to environmental stimuli. Her groundbreaking work includes the development of PULSE, an optogenetic switch that activates gene expression only under specific light conditions while remaining 'off' in ambient light. This technology has opened new possibilities in plant optogenetics for both basic research and applied applications. Her current research examines how plants store high-value natural compounds in biocondensates without suffering auto-toxicity, addressing key bottlenecks in sustainable bio-production systems. She aims to advance green transition through innovative technologies in plant and microalgae bioproduction.

Publication Trends:

Dr. Ochoa-Fernandez's publications demonstrate a clear trajectory from foundational optogenetic tool development to applications in plant metabolic engineering and signaling. Her work spans high-impact journals including Nature Methods, Plant Journal, and Current Biology. The research shows increasing focus on practical applications of synthetic biology tools for sustainable bioproduction, with strong emphasis on developing precise control mechanisms for plant cellular processes.