Víctor A. Ortega (Master's Degree in research Biomedical 2015) came from the University of Georgia (USA), where he studied his Degree in Biology, to specialize in biomedical research attracted by the high level of training of the campus biosanitary of the University of Navarra. He is now continuing his specialization in Clinical Cytogenetics at the University of Los Angeles (UCLA), again in the USA.

What project are you currently working on?
I am currently pursuing a specialization program in Clinical Cytogenetics, taught by high school David Geffen Physician at the University of Los Angeles, California (UCLA). This program offers a specialization in the University's own laboratory Cytogenetics analysis techniques, which include techniques such as detection of molecular and cytogenetic abnormalities in leukemias, lymphomas and solid tumors by conventional (karyotyping) and molecular (FISH) cytogenetic tactics, as well as pre- and post-natal diagnostic testing for numerical aberrations and micro-detection syndrome.

How did the Master's Degree help you to orient your professional future?
The Master's Degree in research Biomedical at the University of Navarra was a decisive factor in the choice of the program I am pursuing, as I broadened my knowledge and saw the clinical side of this field. That impressed me and multiplied my interest in specialization program.

How would you describe the level of research in Spain and in the USA?
From my own experience, I think that the level of research in Spain is very good. It has world-class researchers, as is the case in the United States. Unfortunately, the research is subject to the funding obtained by each laboratory, which limits the promotion of research projects. Nevertheless, the level of Education and the quality of research make Spain a country with great potential in the world of research, just like the United States and other scientific powers.

Why would you recommend to another graduate to take the MIB? What concerns did the training of Master's Degree cover for you?
For me the MIB is a reference letter because it taught me the real day to day life of researcher. And the theoretical classes were a window to get into different specialties, always from the hand of great specialists who shared with us their professional experiences in the clinical setting.

How do you envision your future now?
In the short term, deadline , I hope that after completing specialization program, I will be able to stay for a few years at laboratory cytogenetics at UCLA. Here I want to expand my knowledge and gain more experience at research. Maybe in the future this will allow me to open my own laboratory for cytogenetic analysis, which is my big goal.