Research Assistant and UW Fellow for Academic Excellence

PhD in Pathobiology

Please tell us a little bit about yourself. 

Growing up, I spent more time in doctor’s offices than I did in daycare because of my parents’ jobs as medical interpreters for Spanish-speakers. I largely credit this for my early interest in science. After graduating from UC San Diego, I pursued my interest in neglected disease by working at Mapp Biopharmaceutical, a company that specializes in the development of antibody therapies for neglected diseases such as Ebola virus, Nipah virus, and botulism. Driven by my desire to gain a better understanding of host-pathogen interactions, I began a research associate position in Melanie Ott’s lab at the Gladstone Institutes, where I focused on using human airway organoids to study respiratory viruses such as SARS-CoV-2 and influenza.

Why did you decide to attend the UW for graduate school? 

In my undergraduate studies, I loved how my global health minor informed my perspective of how I approached research, so I was very drawn to the UW’s integrative and interdisciplinary Pathobiology Graduate Program. The UW is home to so many amazing research faculty who are performing cutting edge research with a One Health perspective.

What are your research interests and career goals?

I am very interested in viral host-pathogen interactions and how these can inform the development of therapeutic interventions. I hope to get involved in science communication and explore how we as scientists can help educate the public and demystify science.

When you aren't studying, where is your favorite place to hangout in Seattle?

I love exploring different hiking spots around Seattle and spending time outside (weather permitting)!