Dr. Francesca Aguilo

Dr. Francesca Aguilo is an Associate Professor in the Department of Molecular Biology at Umeå University, Sweden. With her group, she studies RNA-based mechanisms that regulate gene expression, focusing particularly on RNA modifications and the METTL3 methyltransferase—an enzyme that catalyzes the addition of methyl groups at the N6 position in nascent RNAsknown as N6-methyladenosine (m6A). m6A is the most prevalent internal modification in eukaryotic mRNAs and directly impacts RNA fate. Currently, Dr. Aguilo is investigating a novel role of METTL3 in triple-negative breast cancer that is independent of m6A modification. Her interest in METTL3 began during her postdoctoral research while studying zinc finger protein 217 (ZFP217), a poorly characterized transcription factor of the Krüppel-like family. In a 2015 paper published in Cell Stem Cell, she demonstrated that ZFP217 interacts with METTL3 to regulate m6A activity in embryonic stem cells. Later studies revealed that this interaction also plays a role in adipogenesis and breast cancer.

Dr. Aguilo joined Umeå University in 2016 through the Wallenberg Centre for Molecular Medicine (https://wcmm.se/en), a national initiative to strengthen Swedish life science research in molecular medicine, especially on cancer, metabolic diseases, neuroscience, and infection biology. This position offered her an exceptional opportunity to establish her laboratory. Beyond advancing her research, Dr. Aguilo was also drawn to Sweden's beautiful and supportive environment for raising her young children. Thus, the combination of professional growth and excellent quality of life made Sweden the clear choice for her family.

Dr. Aguilo's journey in Molecular Biology and Biochemistry began with inspiring teachers at the University of the Balearic Islands in Mallorca, Spain, where she earned her BS. For her PhD, she worked with Prof. Diego Haro and Dr. Pedro Marrero at the University of Barcelona's Faculty of Pharmacy. She recalls with deep gratitude the formative experiences with her two mentors: “They were pure scientists who taught me critical thinking”, she says.

"I have great respect for researchers like him who prioritize

collaboration and learning over personal recognition"

In 2009, Dr. Aguilo embarked on a transformative journey across the Atlantic to New York. Looking back, she considers this move abroad—particularly to the US—as pivotal in her career. “This decision pushed me out of my comfort zone, exposing me to new research environments, cutting-edge techniques, and a diverse scientific community. It was a transformative experience!” At the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, she completed two postdocs: first at the Black Stem Cell Institute, then in the Department of Structural and Chemical Biology until 2016. During her second postdoc, she discovered her passion for RNA modifications. Her time at Mount Sinai proved invaluable, not only for her scientific development but also for the lasting friendships she formed. “Those are experiences I truly cherish.” There, she met Dr. Dung Fang Lee (now Associate Professor at McGovern Medical School, UTHealth Houston), who became both her postdoctoral mentor and a profound inspiration. ”He was more senior than me, and I was constantly amazed by his vast knowledge, humility, and boundless generosity. His approach to science was not about cultivating his ego but about sharing knowledge and fostering growth in others. I have great respect for researchers like him who prioritize collaboration and learning over personal recognition.”

Dr. Aguilo's academic path led her through various locations, each marking a distinct career phase and making comparisons challenging. However, she particularly notes the motivation and energy she encountered in the US. “That sense of possibility is incredibly inspiring,” she says. These words carry special resonance today.

Nearly a decade after settling in Sweden, Dr. Aguilo describes Umeå as remarkably different, largely due to her role there. “I now lead a team and bear responsibility for others. At times, it can feel a bit overwhelming.” Yet when asked about her proudest achievement, Dr. Aguilo immediately mentions her students and postdocs, whom she watches grow in confidence, develop their own ideas, and overcome challenges. “Watching their passion for science deepen and their commitment to research strengthen is especially rewarding. Their dedication reaffirms the value of mentorship and the impact of a supportive, stimulating environment,” Dr. Aguilo says.

Her message to the next generation of RNA researchers is clear: “pursue what truly excites and motivates you, whether it's RNA or another area of science.” Dr. Aguilo emphasizes the importance of passion - both as a driving force and as sustenance during challenging times. She advocates following one's instincts, which often lead to innovative paths others might overlook. She values open-mindedness, collaboration, curiosity, and persistence. Above all, Dr. Aguilo encourages embracing risks, questioning the status quo, and accepting failure as part of growth. “Remember that failure is part of the process, and each setback is an opportunity to learn and grow. Stay curious, stay persistent, and don't forget to enjoy the journey.”

"Try to learn from your mistakes and never give up!"

Reflecting on her greatest career challenge, Dr. Aguilo discusses balancing motherhood and science—a challenge she manages through mindful breathing, embracing the journey, and maintaining transparency with her lab when personal responsibilities require more attention.

Dr. Aguilo chose RNA research because she recognized RNA's vast potential in cellular processes and was eager to uncover new layers of molecular biology. She loves all RNAs—provided that they are chemically modified! Her favorite RNA journal article is Dr. Mary O'Connell's 2015 personal reflection, "RNA modification and the epitranscriptome: the next frontier". As a postdoctoral fellow in New York at that time, Dr. Aguilo found O'Connell's predictions about RNA modifications' importance both inspiring and insightful, accurately foreseeing their impact on biology and disease. With a touch of humor, Dr. Aguilo notes that O'Connell was spot-on in stating: "If I were a betting person, I would put my money on RNA modifications".

Dr. Aguilo has attended the last two RNA Society Annual Meetings in Singapore and Edinburgh, appreciating the opportunity to connect with colleagues in a welcoming atmosphere. “As a scientist, building a trusted network is essential.” This extends beyond attending meetings to reviewing grants, offering remote teaching, and exchanging favors—efforts that yield invaluable connections supporting professional growth and success.

You can follow Dr. Aguilo on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/francesca-aguilo-756b957b/) or Bluesky (@xis-aguilo.bsky.social). You can also visit the Aguilo lab web page at https://www.umu.se/en/staff/francesca-aguilo/ and https://www.aguilolab.com.