Jordi Casanova-Molla

Meet E-G-G Winner 2012: Jordi Casanova-Molla

They say it’s not what you know, it’s who you know.

To succeed in research, you need both.

For Jordi Casanova-Molla, winning the EFIC-Grünenthal Grant (E-G-G) in 2012 opened his network, connecting him with like-minded researchers around the world.

Jordi’s winning project uses a specialised skin biopsy technique to investigate morphological changes and markers of autoantibodies in patients with small fibre neuropathy.

In order to learn this specialised technique, Jordi studied with experts in Germany and Italy, including with IASP President-elect Prof Claudia Sommer.

“The E-G-G really opens up new doors for new colleagues and friends,” says Jordi.

He is still in touch with a few of his 2012 co-winners.

“We organised an event at University of Barcelona this year and had the opportunity to collaborate together again.”

“Winning this grant is not just about money. It also gives you recognition and a network of researchers at the same stage in their career. It will make research on pain more collaborative”

What advice does he have for potential applicants?

“Science should keep application and patients in mind. With a high level of competition, make sure you say how your research will be translational in the future.”