Biophysical Society Bulletin | January 2024

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George Shubeita United Arab Emirates What do you do professionally?

Leonel Malacrida Uruguay What do you do professionally?

I study a range of problems relating to mo lecular-motor-based trafficking, its regula

I hold a position as the head of the Advanced Bioimaging Unit (UBA), a groundbreaking

Leonel Malacrida

George Shubeita

tion, and dysregulation in disease, and work on developing a predictive understanding of the consequences of macromo lecular crowding on biological function. Part of my efforts are also dedicated to developing new biophysical tools. I have pioneered methods that allow precise single-molecule force measurements within living cells. What led you to apply for the BPS Ambassador Program? Upon moving to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to join New York University Abu Dhabi (NYUAD) a few years ago, I came to realize that I have to proactively raise awareness about biophysics and its relevance. In contrast to my previous environments, where I was often part of a cohort of biophys icists, I found myself the only biophysicist within the program of physics among many astrophysicists and astroparticle physicists, with only a couple of other biophysicists scat tered within the various other programs. However, with the recruitment of three outstanding new faculty members over the past year, NYUAD is now establishing the foundation for a vibrant biophysics hub. What are your Ambassador Program Goals? In my role as a Biophysical Society Ambassador, I aim to ex tend my experience of promoting biophysics at my institution to a more regional effort and emphasize the unique oppor tunity in the UAE, where numerous higher education insti tutions are in close proximity, making collaborative efforts feasible and meaningful. The accelerating pace of interest in fundamental and applied research in the UAE, coupled with the agility in decision making due to minimal institutional inertia, provides a fertile ground for advancing biophysics. A stronger biophysics presence at this stage and stronger global connections with biophysicists will have a long-lasting impact. Tell us something fun about yourself? Beyond my scientific pursuits and parenting responsibilities, I find joy in making things outside the lab and enjoy cooking and creating with Arabic calligraphy.

collaborative venture between the Universidad de la República and the Institut Pasteur de Montevideo in Uruguay. Additionally, I am an associate professor in the Pathophysiology Department at the Hospital de Clínicas, Facultad de Medicina, Udelar. At the UBA, my passion and expertise converge as I lead the development of cutting-edge tools encompassing hardware, software, and novel methodologies at the intersection of microscopy and spectrosco py. These innovations empower us to dissect intricate biological quandaries through a rigorous quantitative lens. What led you to apply for the BPS Ambassador Program? My journey with the BPS Ambassador Program is deeply rooted in my longstanding affiliation with the Biophysical Society. Since 2011, I've actively participated as a devoted student at the BPS Annual Meetings. This dedication to the field led me to take on a pivotal role within the local biophysical chapter of the National Biological Science Society in 2013. In this capacity, I zealously worked towards cultivating national and regional opportunities, providing young scientists with a broader platform to expand their horizons. My commitment extends to my involvement as the Uruguayan representative in the Latin American Federation of Biophysical Societies (LAFeBS) since 2020 and as a founding member and Executive Committee member of the Latin America Bioimaging Consortium (LABI). Through these initiatives, I aim to leverage my regional influence to amplify the presence and impact of the Biophysical Society in my geographical sphere. What are your Ambassador Program Goals? As a BPS Ambassador, I aspire to tighten ties between BPS and regional initiatives like LAFeBS and LABI. Through my extensive involvement with these organizations, I aim to create a favor able ecosystem that enhances young biophysicists’ prospects, helping them access the many BPS activities. My ultimate goal is to promote biophysics-related regional workshops and cours es, spotlighting the exceptional work of many Latin American biophysicists. Tell us something fun about yourself? Beyond my scientific pursuits, I have a deep-seated passion for music, and am particularly fond of guitarists such as George Harri son . Over more than 25 years, I've immersed myself in the world of guitar playing and own a humble guitar collection. Despite my enduring dedication to the guitar, my progress in mastering this instrument remains somewhat modest. Nevertheless, I remain optimistic this may improve soon.

January 2024

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