What do you consider to be your most important contributions to chronobiology and sleep science?
Narrative Account of Career
I hold a Bachelor’s and PhD in Biological Sciences from the University of Buenos Aires. Currently, I serve as Plenary Professor at the University of San Andrés, where I lead the Interdisciplinary Laboratory of Time (LITERA), and I am a Senior Researcher at CONICET. I am also a tenured Professor (on leave) and the head of the Chronobiology Laboratory at the National University of Quilmes. Over the years, I have had the honor of being a visiting researcher or professor at institutions such as the University of Toronto (Canada), Smith College (Massachusetts), the University of Sao Paulo, the University of Buenos Aires, the University of Campinas, the University of the Republic, the University of Virginia, UNAM, Université Louis Pasteur, University of Santander, National University of Córdoba, and FLACSO, among others.
I have dedicated over 30 years to scientific research, primarily in Argentina (aside from my postdoctoral training at the University of Toronto and Smith College). My expertise lies in chronobiology, the study of biological rhythms and clocks, both from a fundamental research perspective and in terms of its applications, particularly within the health sciences. I founded the first Chronobiology Laboratory in the country, which has become a regional reference, fostering numerous collaborations with colleagues both locally and abroad. I have secured funding from multiple sources, including CONICET, the National Agency for Scientific Promotion, the National University of Quilmes, the National Institutes of Health (NIH, USA), the US Navy Office for Research, the Ministry of Health, and the Ministry of Defense, among others. I am also on the editorial board of eight neuroscience/chronobiology journals. Recently, I established the Interdisciplinary Laboratory of Time (LITERA), where I focus my studies on biological rhythms and sleep in humans.
Throughout my career, I have supervised more than 30 undergraduate and postgraduate students and have directed or co-directed 21 undergraduate and 17 doctoral theses. The researchers I have mentored are now part of various stages of the R&D system. In terms of scientific output, I have published 192 articles indexed in Scopus, with an h-index of 42, and my Google Scholar h-index stands at 54, with an i10-index of 152. I rank highly in international scientific production rankings. Additionally, I hold two patents and have provided various technical consulting services in the field of chronobiology.
While I have a long history of studying the basic mechanisms of biological rhythms and their synchronization in various animal models, my interest has always extended to their application in human health. In recent years, I have increasingly focused my studies on this aspect of chronobiology. I am currently actively researching the chronobiological aspects of workers’ performance, including those in the medical or energy sectors, chronopharmacological optimization of treatments, proposals to improve school schedules, and the sleep-wake patterns of the population, all aimed at improving quality of life and public health.
Beyond research, I have held various administrative roles in education and science and technology (S&T), including Graduate Secretary at the National University of Quilmes, Coordinator of the Science Department at the Rojas Cultural Center (University of Buenos Aires), Executive Director of the National Institute of Technological Education (INET), President of the Argentine Society for Neuroscience (SAN), Coordinator of the National Science Popularization Program, and Director of the Science Cultural Center at the former Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation. I also served on the board of the Society for Research on Biological Rhythms, the YPF Foundation Council, the National Commission for the Improvement of Science Education, and was the coordinator of the “Jobs of the Future” program at the Federal Investment Council.
In recognition of my career, I have received various awards and honors, including the Guggenheim Fellowship, the National Science Award B. Houssay, the Mexico City Award (Basic Sciences), the Public Understanding of Science Award (TWAS), the UNESCO/Kalinga Prize (the highest global distinction in science communication), the Martín Fierro Award, the Platinum Konex Award, and the Ordre des Palmes Académiques from the French government.
Alongside my research activities, I have also engaged in numerous science popularization efforts, especially devoted to circadian and sleep topics. I direct the prestigious book series “Ciencia que Ladra,” have designed and organized numerous scientific exhibitions, created and participated in science-related performances (including an opera on Charles Darwin’s voyage), and contributed to science journalism and communication in various print and TV media, as well as countless lectures, workshops, and educational outreach activities.
Main contributions in the circadian field
- a) My PhD dealt with the relationship between melatonin and the GABAergic system, demonstrating that this hormone exerts some of its effects through the BZP site of the GABA A receptor. Many years after these results, the pharmaceutical industry started labelling melatonin not only as a chronobiotic but also as an adjuvant in anxiety or irritability treatment
- b) I worked for many years on the signal transduction pathway for photic circadian entrainment, looking into different pathways that lead to light-induced phase shifts of the clock. Among these pathways, we pioneered the research on a cGMP-related mechanism underlying circadian phase advances. Besides the basic research, one of these studies was the (in)famous demonstration of sildenafil (ViagraÔ) as an experimental treatment for jetlag, which resulted in a wonderful IgNobel Besides having lots of fun, I do believe that this award helped putting chronobiology in the eyes of the main public.
- c) More recently I led research on a circadian desynchronization model, and my group was able to demonstrate not only behavioral and cognitive effects, but also important effects on the severity of experimental cancer. This last finding is related to the study of circadian changes in immune response and immune microenvironment, also linked to our research on the mechanisms of diurnal changes in the toxicity of bacterial lipopolysaccharide
- d) I started the first elegans lab in Argentina, and certainly one of the first ones to use this powerful model system in chronobiological studies. It took a long time and a great effort, but we demonstrated robust circadian rhythms in locomotor activity, susceptibility to stress, gene expression and other variables in this nematode
- e) A few years ago I started a new lab for human sleep and circadian studies (https://udesa.edu.ar/litera). We are very busy looking into circadian “proxies” (i.e., chronobiological trends in publicly available data), designing new algorithms for rhythm analysis, economic effects of circadian disruption, cognitive consequences of sleep deprivation and, especially, trying to advice on public policies that take into account circadian principles. I believe this brings together my previous experience in more “basic” science leading into concrete applications for society.
- f) My other hat has to do with science communication in several formats (lectures, books, science exhibitions, theatre, scientific journalism, etc.). In many cases I have used these formats for the dissemination of circadian and sleep science, creating specific exhibitions, interactive modules, school activities and much more on the subject
- g) Beyond training human resources within the system and having established a regionally recognized laboratory in the field of chronobiology, I take great pride in the fact that, through my research and outreach activities, it’s common for young people to approach me and say that I somehow influenced their decision to pursue a career in science. While I’m sure they’re exaggerating—though it does make me feel a bit older!—it’s truly exciting to know that I may have had a positive impact on how the scientific world is perceived in our society.
What are the most important lessons you have learned over your successful scientific career?
One of the most important lessons I’ve learned throughout my career is the value of interdisciplinary collaboration. Science thrives when it crosses boundaries, and chronobiology is no exception. Working with experts from diverse fields has deepened my understanding of biological rhythms, while enriching the application of our findings to real-world problems, particularly in health and public policy.
Another key lesson is the importance of persistence and flexibility, especially in a peripheral country like Argentina. Conducting cutting-edge science in a context where resources, funding, and infrastructure are often limited requires a special kind of resilience. Navigating these challenges has taught me how to creatively optimize the tools at hand, build strong networks, and be resourceful in securing international collaborations. The obstacles we face in such environments can seem daunting, but they also sharpen our resolve and foster innovation. The scientific community in Argentina has demonstrated time and again that great research can flourish, even from the margins, with the right determination and ingenuity.
I’ve also come to appreciate the dual responsibility of being both a researcher and a communicator. As scientists, we not only have to generate knowledge but also ensure it reaches the public and informs policy. My work in science communication has taught me that engaging with the broader community, whether through public outreach or media, strengthens the impact of our research and can drive meaningful change in society.
Mentorship and education have been equally valuable learning experiences. Training the next generation of scientists is not just about passing down knowledge; it’s about fostering curiosity, critical thinking, and resilience. It’s through this process that I’ve realized the significance of creating a supportive and stimulating environment where young researchers can thrive.
Finally, one lesson I hold dear is the importance of enjoying the scientific journey. Science is demanding and often fraught with setbacks, but it’s also a deeply joyful pursuit. For me, humor and curiosity have always been vital parts of the process. Whether I’m exploring new ideas, collaborating with colleagues, or even designing playful experiments, I’ve learned that the best science often emerges when we approach it with enthusiasm, creativity, and a sense of wonder. Having fun in science keeps us motivated and reminds us why we fell in love with it in the first place. It is this balance—between serious dedication and the joy of discovery—that sustains a long and fruitful career.
In the end, I’ve learned that science is not just about discovery; it’s also about making a difference. Whether it’s improving sleep hygiene through public health initiatives or optimizing work schedules based on circadian rhythms, applying scientific knowledge to improve human lives has been one of the most fulfilling aspects of my career. It’s a reminder that the true measure of success in science is not just in publications, but in the positive impact we can have on society.
Do you have any advice for trainees and early career scientists?
My advice to trainees and early-career scientists is to remain curious, persistent, and open to collaboration. Science is a long and often winding road, so staying genuinely curious about your field and the world around you is something essential to keeping your passion alive. Ask questions, and don’t be afraid to dive into the unknown—some of the most interesting discoveries come from unexpected places.
Persistence is equally important (especially in a “peripheral” country). Science is full of setbacks, rejections, and frustrations, but these are part of the process. Don’t be discouraged by failure; instead, learn from it and use it as a stepping stone. It’s also important to remember that success in science takes time. Be patient with your progress, and understand that great discoveries often come after many small steps and plenty of hard work.
Another key piece of advice is to build strong networks and collaborate widely. The days of the isolated scientist are gone—collaborating across disciplines and cultures is now more critical than ever. Reach out to colleagues from different fields and countries, and never hesitate to ask for advice or input from those with more experience. You’ll find that science is as much about human connection as it is about research.
For those working in countries where resources may be limited, like Argentina, my advice is to embrace creativity and resilience. Learn to work with what you have, and don’t be afraid to look beyond your borders for opportunities. International collaborations can open up new avenues and access to resources that might otherwise be out of reach.
It’s also crucial to strike a balance between serious dedication and maintaining a sense of enjoyment in what you do. Science can be tough, but it’s also a deeply rewarding and, frankly, fun pursuit. Don’t lose sight of the joy of discovery, and find ways to bring creativity and humor into your work. A playful mind is often an innovative one.
Finally, never underestimate the value of effective communication. Science is nothing until it is communicated, both to your colleagues and also to the general public. Whether you’re writing a paper, giving a talk, or explaining your research to a non-scientific audience, clear and compelling communication is key to sharing your discoveries and advancing your career. Learn how to tell the story of your science, and don’t shy away from engaging with the public—it’s not only fulfilling but can have a real impact on how science is perceived and supported in society.
In short, stay curious, stay resilient, collaborate widely, have fun, and communicate your science with passion and clarity.
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