Katerina-Marina Pilala holds a B.Sc in Biology and an M.Sc. in Clinical Biochemistry–Molecular Diagnostics, both from the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (NKUA). Exploring the molecular and biochemical landscape of human malignancies to improve diagnosis, prognosis, and precision medicine approaches emerged as an exciting part of her research interests and led her to pursue a Ph.D. in the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biology, NKUA, under the supervision of Professor Andreas Scorilas. Her Ph.D.  thesis, titled Study and Clinical Evaluation of Epigenetic Modifications in Urothelial Bladder Carcinoma, focuses on the underlying epigenetic mechanisms driving bladder cancer progression. The primary objective of her research is to identify novel DNA methylation markers with clinical relevance for patient prognosis and treatment outcomes.

As a Fulbright Visiting Research Student, Katerina-Marina will conduct a six-month research stay at University of Miami, to advance her research under the supervision of Professor Maria Figueroa. During this academic visit, she will explore innovative epigenome engineering strategies, specifically utilizing CRISPR/dCas9 technologies, to perform targeted methylation and demethylation editing of the promoter regions of key epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT)-regulatory miRNAs. This approach aims to restore normal epigenetic patterns, modulate gene expression, reverse the epithelial–mesenchymal transition, and potentially unveil novel therapeutic avenues for bladder cancer. Overall, this experience significantly enhances the scientific impact of her Ph.D. thesis and contributes to the advancement of translational cancer research, particularly in bladder cancer therapeutics. This training also strengthens academic and research collaboration between Greek and U.S. institutions, paving the way for future joint initiatives that will benefit both research communities.