Plants and other multicellular organisms require precise control of gene expression during their growth and development, as well as in response to environmental changes and to defend their genome. Part of this regulation occurs at the RNA level through gene silencing mediated by small RNAs. Our group focuses on understanding the molecular mechanisms that regulate gene expression in plants, where gene networks involving transcription factors and small RNAs, such as microRNAs, play key roles. We approach these studies through an interdisciplinary framework that includes genetics, cell biology, biochemistry, genomics, and bioinformatics. We use Arabidopsis thaliana as a model organism to address key questions in gene regulation, and we apply the knowledge gained to develop practical tools for agriculturally important species. This work has led to patents and collaborations with agrobiotechnology companies. Impact and Collaborations We are passionate about scientific communication, and several of our publications have been featured on the covers of scientific journals. We collaborate with international researchers and have trained fellows who have received highly competitive scholarships, such as the Marie Skłodowska-Curie (MSCA), EMBO, PEW, and Human Frontiers Science Program. Five of our former fellows are now Research Group Leaders, two of them in Europe, and two others have founded a biotechnology company.