Simon studied Veterinary Medicine and Marine Biology in Belgium and Portugal. After spending a year in Australia working with the Australian Institute of Marine Science, he began his PhD at INRAe in his beloved Basque Country, where he focused on Chaperone-Mediated Autophagy (CMA) in fish. His fascination for metabolism and cellular biology has fueled his belief that identifying key mechanisms regulating these processes will enhance our understanding of how to stimulate heart regeneration. Outside of work, Simon has a passion for hidden musical gems and a soft spot for indie films.