GBR Spotlight – Alonso

For today’s Spotlight, we interview Alonso, a recent addition to our team. He is our Entrepreneurship Director for the LATAM region. Here he talks about his plans for the future, his role within GBR and what TV show you could find him in.

Hi Alonso, thank you very much for finding the time of talking with us today. Could you please describe yourself in a few sentences?
I’m a dynamic and proactive person, passionate about turning scientific discoveries into real-world solutions. My background spans biotechnology, business, and entrepreneurship, and I’ve had the opportunity to live, study, and work in Spain, Taiwan, and the U.S. Originally from Ávila, a small historical city in Spain, I currently live in Los Angeles where I’m pursuing a Global MBA focused on entrepreneurship, innovation, and management. Prior to that I studied a bachelor’s in biotechnology, then specialized with a Master’s in Biomedicine.

Why did you study biotechnology? Could you have also seen yourself doing something else instead?
I’ve always been curious about how discoveries made in the lab eventually reach patients. This interest led me to explore innovation and translational research and gave me the opportunity to work in the technology transfer offices of two of Spain’s leading research institutes. Had I not followed this path, I probably would’ve chosen something more creative — perhaps music, writing, or even filmmaking.

Given that you lived in three different countries, where do you see the difference in terms of social aspects and the Bioeconomy?
Living in Spain, Taiwan, and the U.S. has been incredibly enriching. Spain has a strong academic foundation, but struggles with investment in biotech. Taiwan impressed me with its agility in diagnostics and its government support for Medtech innovation. In the U.S., I’ve seen how ecosystems like California foster entrepreneurship and risk-taking, offering robust private investment and regulatory support. Socially, each place has a different rhythm and sense of community — from Spain’s openness to Taiwan’s respect and structure, to the U.S.’s boldness and independence.

And what are your plans for the future after finishing your degree?
In the near future, I see myself working at a biotech or Medtech startup, or perhaps in a venture capital fund supporting early-stage health innovations. In the longer term, I’d love to launch my own company — ideally a venture that combines science, business, and global impact.

Let’s talk about GBR for a little while. What is your role within our organization?
I’m currently the Entrepreneurship Director for the LATAM region, helping expand GBR’s reach in Latin America by identifying new collaborators and opportunities.

How did you get involved with GBR?
I discovered GBR thanks to the Voices of Tomorrow 2024 event, which caught my attention with its powerful message and dynamic community. I found GBR to be an inspiring organization with high-impact initiatives, strong networking opportunities, and a meaningful mission: supporting students and early-career professionals to thrive in the life sciences world. That resonated deeply with me.

Can you describe a project you really loved working on?
Right now, I’m working on the LATAM expansion, and Mexico is the first country I’ve decided to focus on. It’s one of the most promising biotech hubs in the region, and living in Los Angeles has showed me how strong the connection between both ecosystems is. It’s been exciting to dive into the local landscape and find ways GBR can create bridges and value.

What do you like most about working for GBR?
The openness, energy, and proactive commitment of the team. Everyone is collaborative and truly passionate about creating opportunities in biotech. I also value the chance to connect with people from all over the world — it’s a continuous learning experience. Being part of such a diverse and driven group gives you the motivation and tools to make a real difference.

Where do you see the benefit of GBR?
GBR gives young professionals access to a global network and real opportunities to contribute meaningfully to biotech. It offers a unique sense of community and the chance to reach people from all over the world, providing them with the resources, connections, and support for them to thrive.

And aside from working with us, what are your hobbies?
I love playing basketball, going to music festivals, playing the guitar, and traveling — discovering new places is one of my favorite things to do.

Tell me a fun fact about you.
I once participated in the Spanish version of the TV show Wheel of Fortune… and I won the episode!

Well, we definitely have not heard that answer in the spotlight interviews so far! Who is your favorite person in GBR to work with?
I’d say Ryan De Sotto — he’s the person I’ve interacted with the most since I joined, and he’s been incredibly welcoming and helpful.

Looks like Ryan is getting a lot of positive feedback here. The other Ryan was also saying the same thing in his spotlight. What is your favorite and what is your least favorite food?
My favorite would be Spanish jamón ibérico. That is very hard to beat!
My least favorite: Stinky tofu, which I tried in Taiwan. Once was enough.

And lastly, which three items would you take with you on a lonely island?
A book, a water filter, and a big knife — just the essentials to survive, learn, and (hopefully) get rescued.

Thank you very much Alonso for taking the time to speak with us today. We are looking forward to seeing what comes out of your GBR work in Mexico!