Miss. Valerie Martins

A Cell and Molecular Biologist, researcher, and emerging scientific leader with expertise in molecular genetics, genomics, cancer biology, biotechnology, and environmental microbiology. I hold a Master of Science degree in Cell Biology and Genetics (Cell and Molecular Biology) from the University of Lagos, Nigeria, and a Bachelor of Science degree in Anatomy from the University of Ilorin, Nigeria.

My scientific journey has been driven by a passion for understanding biological processes at the cellular and molecular levels and applying this knowledge to address critical health and environmental challenges. During my master's research, I investigated the isolation, characterization, and molecular identification of plastic-degrading microorganisms from River Ethiope, contributing to the growing field of environmental biotechnology and sustainable solutions to plastic pollution. This work strengthened my expertise in molecular biology techniques, microbial characterization, sequencing analysis, and bioinformatics.

I am currently focusing my research on cancer biology, molecular genetics, and precision medicine. My research interests include investigating the molecular mechanisms underlying cancer initiation, progression, metastasis, and therapeutic resistance. I am interested in gene expression profiling, cancer biomarkers, tumor signaling pathways, and the development of plant-derived therapeutic agents for cancer management. My work seeks to advance the understanding of cancer biology and contribute to the development of innovative, affordable, and accessible interventions for patients, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.

I possess extensive laboratory experience in DNA and RNA extraction, PCR, qPCR, microbial isolation and culturing, molecular diagnostics, phylogenetic analysis, genomics, and bioinformatics. My multidisciplinary background enables me to integrate experimental and computational approaches to address complex biological questions. In addition, I have undertaken professional training in synthetic biology, scientific research methodologies, project management, laboratory safety, and emerging technologies in genomics and biomedical sciences.

Beyond research, I am deeply committed to scientific capacity building and mentorship. I have supported both undergraduate and postgraduate students in laboratory experiments, project development, data analysis, and scientific writing, contributing to the training of the next generation of scientists. I have continually demonstrated leadership through various academic and professional roles, including serving as Welfare Head of the Postgraduate Seminar at the University of Lagos and holding executive positions in student scientific associations during her undergraduate years.

I have contributed to peer-reviewed scientific publications and presented research findings at academic forums. I am passionate about advancing women’s participation and leadership in science, promoting interdisciplinary collaboration, and leveraging scientific innovation to address global health challenges. Through my research and professional activities, I aspire to contribute to transformative discoveries in cancer biology, genomics, and precision medicine while fostering scientific development.