He arrived in Brno from Spain as an intern and leaves as an award-winning scientist and PhD graduate. During his time at the Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, Marcos González López, MSc., Ph.D., gained recognition for his research on stem cells, tooth growth, and regeneration. In this interview, he reflects on his scientific journey, life in Brno, the importance of science communication, and why understanding the loss of tooth regenerative capacity in humans remains one of the most fascinating questions in modern biology.
What does this award mean to you at this stage of your career?
This award represents recognition of the effort, time and dedication I have invested in science over the years. At the same time, it reflects the support of the laboratory where I had the opportunity to grow both professionally and personally. I truly value that this work is being recognised and appreciated.
Your research focuses on tooth growth and regeneration – what fascinates you most about this topic personally?
When I joined Jan Křivánek’s laboratory, I was primarily interested in stem cells, both in humans and animals, and their remarkable ability to generate different types of cells depending on the needs of the organism. During my doctoral studies, I used mouse teeth as a model to study how stem cells behave in situations where a new tooth needs to be continuously generated. What fascinates me most is the fact that in some organisms, such as mouse incisors, the ability to regenerate has been preserved throughout evolution, whereas in humans it has largely been lost. Understanding the reasons behind this phenomenon is not only scientifically exciting but may also have implications for future regenerative therapies.
What do you consider the main contribution of your work to science or future medical practice?
During my PhD studies, I had the opportunity to take part in several projects. I consider my main contribution to be the introduction of a new methodology into the field of hard tissue research, specifically bones and teeth. This approach allows us to track the dynamics of mineralisation in four dimensions – both in space and over time. We have demonstrated that it can be applied not only to mammals but also to a wide range of less traditional model organisms, including fish, chickens, chameleons and frogs.
Was there a particular moment or breakthrough in your research that you are especially proud of?
Rather than a single experiment or breakthrough, what I am most proud of are the people I have met along the way. I had the opportunity to teach and supervise students, collaborate with excellent colleagues from the Department of Histology and Embryology, and work with researchers from various fields. The fact that I remain in contact with many of them and that they continue to be part of my life is incredibly valuable to me. I consider this to be one of the most significant outcomes of my doctoral studies.
You originally came to the Czech Republic as an intern. What made you stay and continue your academic career at Masaryk University?
Yes, I first came to the Czech Republic as an intern during my Master’s studies at Universidad Francisco de Vitoria in Madrid. I spent nine months working in Jan Křivánek’s laboratory, and I liked both the research environment and the people around me very much. The Faculty of Medicine offered excellent infrastructure, modern equipment and access to state-of-the-art technologies, creating ideal conditions for high-quality research. Staying seemed like the right decision, as I saw a great opportunity for professional growth, developing new skills and engaging in meaningful scientific work.
Where are you from, and what brought you to Brno?
I come from Villaviciosa de Odón, a town about twenty kilometres from Madrid in Spain. During my Bachelor’s studies in biochemistry at Complutense University in Madrid, I started attending Czech language courses organised by the Czech Lectureship. I really enjoyed learning a completely new language and discovering a different culture.
After two years, I received a scholarship from the Czech Ministry of Education, Youth and Sports, which allowed me to spend up to nine months at an educational institution in the Czech Republic. Thanks to this opportunity, I began looking for a laboratory that matched my scientific interests and came across Jan Křivánek’s research group. After just a few online meetings, I could sense his enthusiasm, energy and passion for science and felt it was the right place for me. After completing the internship, I was offered the opportunity to continue in the same laboratory as a PhD student.
Looking back, was there a particular moment when you realised that Brno or Masaryk University was the right place for you?
I do not think there was a single defining moment when I realised Brno was the right place for me. It was rather a gradual process. As I built my daily routine, formed friendships and got to know the city better, I suddenly realised that I felt at home here. Brno is where I truly matured. I learned to make important decisions, gained new experiences and went through both good and challenging periods. Looking back today, it was one of the most beautiful periods of my life, and Brno will always remain in my heart.
Has your perception of the Czech Republic changed over time?
Definitely. I arrived in Brno in September 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic, so my initial experience of the city was shaped by lockdowns and restrictions, both at work and in everyday life. As the situation gradually improved and people returned to normal life, I discovered a completely different side of Brno. I experienced its vibrant café and food scene, cultural events and very friendly atmosphere. The city is particularly enjoyable in summer, thanks to its parks, reservoir, outdoor festivals and lively social life. Over time, Brno has become much more to me than just the place where I completed my PhD.
How would you describe the research environment at Masaryk University?
Over the past five years, I have had the opportunity to collaborate with several research teams across the Faculty of Medicine, the Faculty of Science and CEITEC. Researchers were always willing to help, share their expertise and establish interdisciplinary collaborations. This open and friendly atmosphere allowed me to contribute to many interesting projects that resulted in publications in prestigious scientific journals. More importantly, it creates an environment where high-quality research can develop more quickly and effectively through teamwork and open communication.
How important was the support of your supervisors and colleagues?
The support of people around me was a crucial part of my entire doctoral journey. It was not only about practical help in the laboratory, but also about the willingness to spend time discussing science, career development, and life both inside and outside academia. Having such supportive colleagues around me made a huge difference and helped me grow both professionally and personally.
How do you evaluate the facilities and academic support at the faculty?
I never felt that my research was limited by a lack of equipment or access to necessary facilities. The university offers top-level core facilities with experts who not only enable the use of advanced technologies but also provide valuable expertise and guidance. The Faculty of Medicine, the university as a whole, and CEITEC provided an excellent environment that allowed me to focus on scientific questions rather than technical limitations. This enabled me to develop my curiosity and pursue topics that genuinely interested me.
You took part in the Researchers’ Night – what does science communication mean to you?
Yes, I had the opportunity to take part in Researchers’ Night twice. The first time, it was quite challenging for me because I was concerned about communicating science in Czech and unsure whether people would be willing to switch to English if needed. In the end, I realised that this barrier existed mainly in my own head. Visitors were enthusiastic, curious and eager to engage in the activities we prepared. Once I saw their interest, language ceased to be an issue.
I believe that, as scientists, we have a responsibility to share the knowledge we create with society. Research is often funded by public resources, and people have the right to know what we do and why it matters. Making science accessible and presenting it engagingly helps build trust and appreciation for scientific work. Without bringing science closer to society, it is difficult for our work to achieve its full impact.
Why do you think it is important for researchers to engage with the public?
Science and technology are made possible by society’s support, so researchers have a responsibility to share their work with the public. People need to understand how scientific knowledge is created and how it can ultimately improve their lives. In my field, this is often linked to medicine and health, but the same principle applies across all scientific disciplines. Public engagement helps strengthen the connection between scientists and society while also inspiring future generations to take an interest in science.
How has living in Brno influenced you professionally and personally?
Brno has shaped me in many ways, and I truly feel that it is where I grew up. Moving abroad alone, without family or close friends nearby, taught me independence and helped me gain confidence in dealing with everyday situations. Tasks that seem simple—such as handling administrative matters, opening a bank account or visiting a doctor—become much more challenging in a new country and a foreign language.
Professionally, Brno offered me the opportunity to work on meaningful scientific projects and become part of an inspiring research community. It also allowed me to gain recognition in the field of dental and craniofacial development research, including several awards at international conferences.
The Czech language has been part of your journey – what motivated you to learn it and how do you use it today?
Definitely. The Czech language is one of the main reasons I am where I am today, both professionally and personally. I started learning it in 2018 purely as a hobby, without knowing where this path would lead me. Eight years later, it is a language I enjoy speaking and continue to improve.
There were many reasons to keep studying. In everyday life and at work, I always felt that people appreciated the effort to communicate in Czech, which motivated me to continue. Over time, my friends and partner also became an important part of this journey. Thanks to the language, I was able to build deeper relationships, integrate better into the local community and truly develop a sense that the Czech Republic is my second home.
What do you enjoy doing in your free time outside the laboratory?
In my free time, I like to stay active. In Brno, I often went to the gym with friends and colleagues, whether for regular workouts or group classes such as body attack, jumping or circuit training. I also enjoyed spending time in the city – going for walks, having ramen or pizza, or visiting ice cream shops in the centre. In general, I love travelling and being in nature. Whenever possible, I go on trips with friends, whether to the mountains for hiking or to the sea for relaxation and discovering new places.
What are your future career plans? Do you see your future mainly in academia?
I completed my PhD in September 2025. After my defence, I stayed for several months in Jan Křivánek’s laboratory at the Department of Histology and Embryology of Masaryk University, where I continued working on ongoing research projects and helped finalise work related to my PhD. In April 2026, I moved to Gothenburg, Sweden, where I started a postdoctoral position in the group of Andrei S. Chagin at the Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg. This new stage of my career allows me to broaden my research interests and explore new directions in developmental biology.
While my doctoral research focused on craniofacial and dental development, my current work centres on skeletal stem cells in the growth plate of long bones, using mouse models. It is an exciting opportunity to apply the knowledge and skills I gained during my PhD to a new biological system. At the same time, I will expand my expertise, establish new collaborations and continue growing as a researcher.
My long-term goal is to become an independent scientist leading my own research group. At present, I feel very comfortable in the academic environment – it provides space to ask questions, develop new ideas and contribute to scientific knowledge. I enjoy both the research itself and the collaborative nature of academic work. At the same time, I do not want to completely close the door to opportunities outside academia. If an opportunity arose in industry or another sector that aligned with my interests and values, I would be open to considering it. For now, however, continuing a scientific career in academia remains my main priority.
Despite the heatwave, many interested visitors made their way to the Medicinal Herbs Centre during the 64th Medicinal Plant Exhibition. They were drawn by the blooming botanical garden and a panel exhibition titled Poppy, Cannabis, Drugs: Helpers and Tempters of Humanity.
Ten guests and inspiration spanning a wide range of disciplines. The second season of Breakfast with a Scientist once again brought together researchers, students, teachers, and clinicians. The third season of this unique series of informal gatherings will begin on 22 September.
