STEM Journeys

My STEM Journey - Michelle Rojas

10/12/2025

Michelle Carolina Rojas Romero is a passionate Ecuadorian biotechnologist and biomedical researcher whose journey bridges continents and scientific frontiers. She holds a bachelor's degree in Biotechnology from the Universidad de Las Américas in Quito and a master's in Medicines Research, Development, Quality Control, and Innovation from the University of Granada, Spain. Currently, she is advancing her scientific career through a Ph.D. in Molecular and Cellular Biology, Biomedicine, and Biotechnology at the University of Extremadura, while contributing to cutting-edge lung transplant research at the University of Pittsburgh.

From the Middle of the World to the Frontiers of Science
As a young child I was always curious about science, wishing to know more and more about everything, in school I was able to create a foundation for my love for academics, graduating at the top of my class(algo del colegio). Being from a small town in Ecuador after graduating high school I made the decision alongside my parents' support to move to the Capital- Quito to pursue my dream with better education opportunities, I was awarded a scholarship that allowed me to immerse myself in academics, picking Biotechnology as my undergrad degree. My passion for science and the immense world of Biotechnology caught my attention, at the Universidad de las Americas in Quito I was fortunate to have amazing mentors, that not only gave me an opportunity to join the University’s investigation labs but also guided and supported me through my thesis investigation, gaining a lot of insights on how research works and solidified my love for it.

After graduation I gained work experience from various professional settings, working in industry as part of the quality control group and in a public hospital gaining experience in sample processings (algo de esas experiencias creo). At the same time my desire to continue my studies kept me looking for opportunities outside my country. I was fortunate to earn a scholarship to pursue a master’s degree focused in Medicine Research, development, quality control and innovation in Spain at the University of Granada. During that time I worked on research focused in pharmacogenetics and personalized medicine at the Hospital Universitario San Cecilio. During my specialization I prioritized my academic and career goals and kept looking for new opportunities, that’s how before completing my studies I received a job offer from the University of Pittsburgh in the United States of America, opening the door for my next phase in my scientific journey.

Currently, I work in the Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine (PACCM) at the University of Pittsburgh, supporting multiple research projects while pursuing my international Ph.D. at the University of Extremadura.

My doctoral project, titled “Epitopes Discovery Associated with Alloreactive Response in Lung Transplant Recipients Using Immunopeptidomics,” focuses on improving the long-term success of lung transplants by identifying specific protein fragments that trigger immune rejection, we aim to develop early detection tools and targeted therapies to enhance transplant outcomes.

Most recently I participated in a “3-minute fame” competition organized by the EU GREEN alliance and was selected as a winner, being picked to present at the Research Week in Italy as a representative of the University of Extremadura.

Beyond research, I am passionate about mentoring and supporting Ecuadorian students seeking scholarships and postgraduate opportunities abroad. Through my platform, "Mastermind," I provide guidance and resources to help them navigate their academic journeys outside their countries.

Advice for Aspiring Biomedicine and Biotechnology Students
For those interested in biomedicine or biotechnology, my advice is to start by building a strong foundation in biology and chemistry. Seek out research opportunities, internships, or volunteer positions in laboratories to gain hands-on experience. Don't be afraid to ask questions and seek mentorship; learning from others is invaluable. Stay curious, stay persistent, and remember that every expert was once a beginner.

Advice for Latinas Pursuing STEM Degrees
To my fellow Latinas aspiring to enter STEM fields: believe in your potential and embrace your unique perspective. Seek out communities and organizations that support underrepresented groups in STEM. Surround yourself with mentors and peers who uplift and encourage you. Your voice and contributions are not only valuable—they are essential to the advancement of science and technology.
The journey has not been easy, but I am deeply grateful to my family—my parents, Martha and Jorge, and my brothers, Jorge Andrés and Santiago—for their unwavering support and belief in me. To my friends, Fanny, Génesis, Sara, Evelyn, Lizeth, Jose, Taty, Stev, colleagues, and collaborators, thank you for walking this path with me. And to the one who has stood by my side with patience, love, and quiet strength, your support has been my anchor.

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rojasr/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/caroojourney/
Linktr.ee: Caro linktr.ee

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My STEM Journey - Sandra Flores-Castillo

9/8/2025

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Sandra Flores-Castillo is a bilingual professional based in Minnesota. She began her career with the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) during her senior year of high school through the Phoenix Internship Program. Over the years, she advanced to become a Photogrammetric Technician – Transportation Generalist Senior at MnDOT, specializing in lidar, photogrammetric compilation, and GIS mapping projects. As a first-generation college graduate and Hispanic woman in STEM, she actively promotes geospatial careers to youth and serves as a Brand Ambassador for the "Get Kids Into Survey" initiative .

For Sandra Flores-Castillo, becoming a Photogrammetric Technician at the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) wasn’t just the beginning of a career — it was the culmination of a journey defined by curiosity, resilience, and a deep-rooted commitment to public service.

Sandra’s story begins in her junior year of high school, when a growing interest in STEM led her to apply for the Phoenix Internship Program at MnDOT. She was placed at the Materials and Road Research Lab in Maplewood, MN, where she entered her first professional office environment. What started as a summer internship soon became a defining experience, introducing her to the dynamic world of transportation and engineering.
Recognizing her dedication and potential, MnDOT extended her internship into her senior year. It was during this time that Sandra began to see a future in civil engineering — and perhaps, even a future at MnDOT. Inspired by the work around her and the impact it had on everyday Minnesotans, she pursued a degree in Civil Engineering at the University of Minnesota.

Sandra’s educational and professional journey continued through MnDOT’s Seeds Student Worker Program. In her freshman year, she joined the Bituminous Engineering Unit, where she began building a strong technical foundation. Eager to expand her understanding of the field, she spent the following summer with the Survey Unit, traveling throughout the state and gaining hands-on experience in fieldwork and data collection.

By sophomore year, Sandra transferred to the Waters Edge office in Roseville and joined the Design Group. There, she began working on CAD mapping projects — a gateway to what would become a growing interest in Geographic Information Systems (GIS). But just as her path was becoming clearer, the world changed.

The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted life everywhere. Sandra’s planned transfer to the Bridge Office was paused, and she was temporarily reassigned to the Department of Public Safety as a Health Screener at the Arden Hills DMV. The shift from engineering to frontline public health work was dramatic — but also transformative. The experience strengthened her communication skills, adaptability, and appreciation for public-facing roles — all crucial to her growth as a state employee.

It was during this time that Sandra made a pivotal academic decision: she switched her major from Civil Engineering to a Bachelor of Science in Geography with a focus on GIS. The decision would prove to be a defining one.
Returning to MnDOT, Sandra joined the Geographic Information and Mapping (GIM) Section as a GIS student worker. Her work contributed to a wide array of cartographic products, including customized GIS datasets for Minnesota’s 87 counties, 854 cities, and 1,781 townships. The flexibility of remote work allowed her to balance her studies
while continuing to contribute meaningfully to the agency’s mission.

As a senior, she took on a capstone project titled “Including Unincorporated Communities into the Zoning Database,” a real-world mapping initiative that connected her academic studies with her professional experiences. It was a proud moment — a signal that Sandra had found her voice and place in the field.

After graduating from the University of Minnesota, Sandra entered the MnROW (MnDOT’s Retaining Our Workforce) Program, which allowed her to continue working within the GIM Section while exploring permanent roles. She also participated in MnDOT’s Leadership Development Program (LDP), which exposed her to specialized areas across the agency. One course in particular stood out: Photogrammetry.

Sandra was instantly drawn to the intersection of technology, mapping, and spatial precision. When a full-time opportunity opened in the Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing Unit, she didn’t hesitate.

Today, as a Photogrammetric Technician, Sandra supports Minnesota’s transportation systems through advanced geospatial analysis. She works with aerial imagery and mapping workflows that inform critical infrastructure planning and decision-making statewide. It’s a role that blends her technical expertise with her passion for serving the public.
Most recently, she became an ambassador for the 'Get Kids into Survey' initiative, where she actively engages with young minds to inspire and educate them about the exciting possibilities in future geospatial careers, fostering a new generation of innovators in the field. Beyond that she is actively educating other geospatial professionals about the many great uses that photogrammetry and remote sensing bring to the table.

Sandra Flores-Castillo’s story is one of resilience, representation, and rising through opportunity. As a first-generation college graduate, a Latina in STEM, and a trailblazer for women in geospatial science, she’s helping shape not just the maps of Minnesota — but the future of MnDOT itself.

Connect with Sandra Flores-Castillo on LinkedIn.

Including Unincorporated Communities Into The Zoning Database:
https://mdl.mndot.gov/taxonomy/term/2491

Get Kids Into Surveying:
https://www.getkidsintosurvey.com/blog/ambassador-spotlight-sandra-flores-castillo/

Stillwater grads, twins to study civil engineering after MnDOT internships:
https://www.hometownsource.com/stillwater_gazette/news/education/stillwater-grads-twins-to-study-civil-engineering-after-mndot-internships/article_4b7db9ac-65e0-11e8-941b-a3d01a8b110d.html

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My STEM Journey - Dr. Xiolmara Martinez

8/5/2025

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Dr. Xiolmara Martinez is a research chemist who received her PhD in Analytical Chemistry from Loyola University Chicago. After receiving her PhD, she began her career as an industrial chemist where she used her expertise in mass spectrometry for product development.
I know my high school chemistry teacher Mr. Pipernik does not remember me, but I owe it all to him for sparking my interest in pursuing a career in chemistry. I set my sights on becoming a forensic scientist and majored in forensic science with a minor in chemistry during college.
After my sophomore year I had the opportunity to apply for a summer internship in an analytical chemistry lab that I was interested in. I asked my organic chemistry professor for a letter of recommendation, and I applied even though I felt underqualified. That summer was the first time I got to experience working independently in a lab and the first time I operated a piece of analytical instrumentation on my own, an inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometer (ICP-MS). This internship is what guided the rest of my career path.
I knew I wanted to continue learning about analytical chemistry, so I emailed my analytical chemistry professor my junior year to see if I could contribute to the research in his lab. He accepted me and a year later I presented a poster on the research I conducted in his lab which was about the determination of illicit designer drugs and their metabolites. My curiosity grew and I decided to continue my education beyond the undergraduate level and pursued my PhD in analytical chemistry.
I am a big believer in education being a powerful tool. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and find guidance as you can potentially learn about a world of dreams and opportunities you did not know existed- had I not put myself out there I wouldn’t have gotten the summer internship that changed the trajectory of my career.
It is cliché to say, but do not give up. Stay resilient. Most importantly, find your community and support system-it is extremely important, especially in discouraging moments.
Seeing Latinas in the STEM field inspires me, especially in the chemistry field. I look forward to seeing us grow in these spaces. Till this day I am still learning-I know 16-year-old me would be proud of the scientist I am today, I’m proud of the scientist I am today.

Connect with Dr. Xiolmara on LinkedIn.

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My STEM Journey - Chloe Urias

7/8/2025

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Chloe is a public health researcher, a mentor for emerging scholars, and an aspiring physician, shaped by her experience as the daughter of a Mexican immigrant and her commitment to serving underrepresented communities. She is currently pursuing her Master of Public Health at Vanderbilt University, on the global health track. This summer, she is interning at the Tennessee Department of Health, for the Traumatic Brain Injury Program, and at Comma as a PCOS Clinical Research and Cohort Development Intern.

My journey into STEM has not been a straight line but a dynamic and fulfilling path shaped by a deep curiosity about the human brain, the social systems that connect us, and the opportunity to create change in communities that have long been overlooked. My passion for medicine didn’t begin in a lecture hall. It began in rural clinics in Ghana and Guatemala through my work with Global Medical Brigades. There, I helped research local health trends, created patient education materials, and delivered presentations to demystify symptoms and illness. I saw how knowledge could transform fear into agency and how culturally competent education could prevent illness before it became a crisis. That formative experience showed me that real care doesn’t end with a prescription. It begins with understanding.

But my most defining lesson in medicine came from my own body. At age fifteen, I was hospitalized with a ruptured ovarian cyst. Over the next five years, I experienced irregular periods, severe cramping, acne, and weight fluctuations. Despite seeing multiple providers, my symptoms were repeatedly dismissed until I was finally diagnosed with polycystic ovary syndrome at twenty. It wasn’t the healthcare system that led me to answers. It was my own persistence. These experiences are not rare, they are what many women, particularly women of color, encounter regularly. I am determined to become the kind of physician who listens the first time and brings a lens of compassion and cultural humility to every clinical interaction.

That determination led me to pursue a Master of Public Health at Vanderbilt University, where I’ve explored how social determinants of health shape long-term outcomes. My research and community work have been driven by the belief that healthcare is a human right, and that physicians must be accountable not just to science, but to the communities they serve.

This belief led me to Comma, a femtech startup, where I became the company’s first PCOS Clinical Research and Cohort Development Intern. In this role, I contribute to research that challenges outdated assumptions and works to close the gap in PCOS diagnosis for younger patients. Patients like me, who are so often overlooked. I am not just gathering data. I am helping reimagine what PCOS care can look like. Even as I work at the intersection of public health, research, and innovation, I have come to realize something deeper. I want to be the one sitting across from the patient. I want to help them understand what’s happening, what comes next, and how to take control of their health. No other role offers the same opportunity to blend science, trust, and systems-level change as being a physician.

As the daughter of a Mexican immigrant, I carry with me the stories of my family and my community. I hope to become a doctor who rewrites those stories. One who makes healthcare more accessible, more compassionate, and more just. After completing my Master of Public Health, I plan to apply to medical school next spring. My journey has been fueled by lived experience, academic rigor, and an unwavering drive to serve. I am ready to become the kind of physician I once needed. One who doesn’t just treat disease but empowers people.

Connect with Chloe on LinkedIn, Instagram, and TikTok.

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My STEM Journey - Sandra Isidro

6/8/2025

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Sandra E. Isidro is a proud Peruvian American Healthcare Data Analyst. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Health Administration with a concentration in Health informatics from George Mason University . In 2023, she earned a Master’s in Science in Health Informatics with a concentration in Data Analytics and a Graduate certificate in Healthcare Data Analytics from George Mason University. Now as a Healthcare Data and Reporting Analyst at one of the top ranked healthcare insurance companies in the US, she uses data to tell stories, improve patient outcomes and streamline care delivery by bridging her passion for technology with her commitment to health equity.

I moved to the United States with my family in 2001. The road was not easy. Coming to a new country, learning a new language, leaving family, friends and leaving my engineering college education were a few of the obstacles that I faced. I had no other choice but to stop my dream of getting a higher education. As the eldest sibling, I felt the need and responsibility to help my parents get back on their feet as we were starting a new life in a new country.

While I was working on low paying jobs, I realized that without an education things will be more complicated, but without financial resources and the need to help my parents, these goals were [placed] on hold for many years. Shortly [after], I got married and soon I became [the] mother of two boys. However, the dream of continuing a college education was always there. After many years of putting my education on hold to support my family and raise my children, I decided to go back to school, and I enrolled in Northern Virginia Community College (NVCC). Having to support a family and working full time made my academic journey extremely difficult, but not impossible. NVCC gave me the chance to take classes at my own pace, gave me the academic foundation that I needed before transferring to a four-year university. In 2018, I graduated with a bachelor’s in science in Health Administration with a concentration in Health Informatics from George Mason University. During my undergraduate studies, I took different classes that awakened my Health Informatics passion. Classes such as Python, Database Fundamentals, Mobile Health and Privacy and Security in Health Informatics were determinant to my future as a Health Informatics professional. During my last year of college, I won the AMIA First Look scholarship to attend the annual American Medical Informatics Association symposium. The purpose of the AMIA First Look program was to expose undergraduate women with an interest in Health Informatics to mentors already in the health informatics and STEM industry. Attending that symposium made me realize the importance of continuing my education. At the beginning of the pandemic, I was accepted to the George Mason University Health Informatics Data Analytics Master’s program. It was difficult to concentrate in school during that time of uncertainty, anxiety, and quarantine, but my determination and “ganas” were always bigger than any adversities that I have encountered throughout my life. Two years ago, I finally joined the 8% of Latinas with a master’s degree in the US and I was the only Latina in the
2023 graduate class.

STEM is hard for everyone. I was always anxious and scared at the beginning of every semester thinking that I was not cut out for a career in technology. In every science or technology class that I took during [graduate] school, I was the only Latina in the room. I would tell myself, “I can’t do this. There is nobody else in this room that looks like me.” However, knowing that I was the only Latina in the room gave me the strength to keep going. We need more representation in STEM careers and especially in the Health Data Analytics/ Health Informatics/ Data Science fields. I feel that you cannot be what cannot see. Therefore, having a role model that looks like yourself helps, especially when you are the first person you know to pursue a certain path. As an immigrant woman in my field, I look back at my struggles and I just think how proud and happy it makes me to [know] that I am paving the way for my children, family, friends, and other women like me.

It’s been over 17 years since I started working in the healthcare insurance industry. At the beginning as a customer service representative, then as a health insurance reimbursement specialist & medical coding representative, and now as healthcare data analyst. I am looking forward to keep learning and [gaining] more technical and machine learning skills to become a Healthcare Data Scientist. Across all races and ethnicities, women remain underrepresented in the tech field, holding just 26 percent of the positions. For Hispanic women, this disparity is even worse, as they make up just two percent. This reminded me [of what] what a recruiter said at my current job: “You are the first Latina that I hired in a technology position. I’m very proud of you.”

This is just a reminder that everyone can learn something new every day. You don’t need to be an expert in math or science to pursue a STEM career. We need more representation in the health data analytics field, but I feel that you cannot be what [you] cannot see. Therefore, representation matters, especially when you are the first person you know to pursue a certain path.

I am always proud to share my story and help others (especially women) to reach their academic dreams just like I did. If you are reading this, I want you to know that it is never too late- no obstacle is bigger than your dreams. Persistence and curiosity matters. Si se puede!!

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My STEM Journey - Dr. Karla Del Cid-Ledezma

5/12/2025

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Dr. Karla Del Cid-Ledezma is a proud Mexican-Panamanian-American engineer. She earned her bachelor's degree in Nuclear, Plasma, and Radiological Engineering from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, and recently defended their PhD in Materials Science at the University of Connecticut in the summer of 2025. Currently, she is working as a Process Engineer at Applied Materials.

I've always loved learning, ever since I was a young girl. Whether it was through school or exploring topics on my own, I was eager to soak up as much knowledge as possible. My passion for science and engineering truly sparked when I started watching science fiction (or sci-fi)shows, especially Stargate Atlantis. I wanted to be like a scientist in the show, one that could create experiments and solutions (albeit without the impending science fiction catastrophe). However, not seeing someone like me, someone who was Hispanic or even a woman, represented in those shows drove me to become a role model for others. I threw myself into my high school studies, graduating as salutatorian, opening the door for me to attend the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.

After completing my bachelor's degree, I knew I wanted to obtain my PhD. At the University of Connecticut, I delved into Materials Science, focusing my research on tomographic-AFM (Atomic Force Microscopy). This technique allowed me to dig into materials to uncover the various electronic and mechanical properties beneath the surface, much like an archeologist looking to learn more about the human past but for the future of technology at the nanoscale. The materials I studied play a vital role in advancing semiconductors and logic technology, impacting applications such as flash memory and making semiconductors devices more powerful, efficient, and compact.

My interest in these materials naturally led me to the semiconductor industry and eventually to Applied Materials. I interned with them for nine months, from May 2023 to January 2024, and was thrilled to be offered a full-time position once I defended my PhD in June 2024.

My graduate experience was both incredibly enriching and one of the hardest periods of my life. During those four years, I helped establish the graduate chapter for the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE) and volunteered in various programs to help bring STEM to middle and high school students, such as the Sisters in STEM conference. However, I also lost my father in the middle of my graduate program. Him and my mom are my biggest inspirations in life. They sacrificed much for me to have the opportunity to pursue my dreams, whatever they were. My dad's last wish was for me to continue working towards my degree, no matter what happened, and I am proud to say that I was able to finish my PhD in June of 2024.

Even with the pain of losing my dad and being hundreds of miles away from home, I would do it all over again. To me, education is everything, it is something no one can take away from you. I still don't know what I want to be “when I grow up”, I'm always looking to learn, and I think my advice to anyone who wants to get into a STEM field is to be curious. Start looking things up, taking an introductory course here and there in high school or college, and don't be afraid of failing because that is when you can learn the most.

Currently, I work as a Process Engineer at Applied Materials. My daily responsibilities include designing experiments, collecting data, and analyzing data from a variety of process engineering experiments involving ion implantation. I love using both my plasma engineering background and materials science PhD at my job. I am currently creating an employee resource group for Hispanics at our company site in Gloucester, Massachusetts, to help empower and build a community for Hispanics in the field. As a woman in a male-dominated field, it can be intimidating and daunting, but I try my hardest to shake the imposter syndrome voice off and let my voice speak out and contribute to the team. I deserve to be there; everybody deserves a place at that STEM table.

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My STEM Journey - Iris Montes

3/9/2025

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Iris Montes studies how cells regulate their protein load as well as investigating the role of the p97 adaptor UBXD8 in peroxisome homeostasis. Her research combines molecular biology, biochemistry, and advanced imaging techniques to uncover how these processes contribute to cellular function.

From a young age, I was captivated by the natural world, though I never imagined I would one day become a scientist. As a first-generation Latina in STEM, I initially set my sights on a career in medicine, believing it was the best way to give back to my community. However, through research opportunities and the mentorship I received along the way, I discovered a passion for unraveling the intricate mechanisms that sustain life at the cellular level.
My academic journey began at the University of California, Merced, where I earned my Bachelor of Science in Cell and Molecular Biology. During the first two years, at UC Merced I worked in the Central Valley’s orchards, picking oranges and grapes to help pay for school. The women I worked with, along with my parents, were my first support system—encouraging me to seek opportunities for growth so that I could one day leave that job. Early in my journey, I knew I loved science and had questions I wanted to answer, but I wasn’t sure how to start. I remember accompanying my friend Angelo as he sought a letter of recommendation for a summer research internship we had heard about through our Society for the Advancement of Chicanos/Hispanics and Native Americans in Science (SACNAS) chapter. When our chemistry professor asked if I needed one too, I hesitated, convinced I wasn’t qualified. “But I have no experience,” I told him. “I don’t want to ruin their experiments.” He laughed and reassured me that research labs were meant for learning—not just for experienced scientists. Remembering the encouragement of my community back home, I decided to apply. That moment changed the course of my career.
My introduction to research came through summer internships and programs like SACNAS, where I met scientists who shared my background and aspirations. A pivotal experience was my first research program at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, where I studied the role of a vasoactive peptide in hypertension and kidney damage in mice. I have always been fascinated by the unseen world—the microscopic universe within our cells that keeps us alive. I remember staring at my biology textbook, mesmerized by the idea that organelles, like tiny organs inside a cell, work together to maintain cellular function. Just as a city requires maintenance to keep its infrastructure running smoothly, cells must regulate their organelles to prevent dysfunction. When these quality control systems fail, diseases such as neurodegeneration and metabolic disorders can arise. This realization fueled my curiosity: How do cells maintain organelle health? What mechanisms exist to repair or remove damaged organelles? These questions set me on the path to my current research.
I am now completing my PhD in molecular biology at Tufts University in Dr. Malavika Raman’s lab, where I study how cells recognize, repair, or eliminate damaged organelles to maintain overall cellular health. One of the most rewarding aspects of being a scientist is the thrill of discovery—there is nothing quite like the moment an experiment finally works and reveals something new about biology.
Beyond research, I am passionate about mentoring and advocating for underrepresented students in STEM—students like me. At Tufts, I helped establish a SACNAS chapter to build a supportive community for students navigating academia, much like the one that guided me as an undergrad at UC Merced.
For young Latinas considering a future in STEM, my advice is simple: believe in yourself, seek out mentors, and don’t let imposter syndrome hold you back. I remember moments in my journey when my merit was questioned—when people would suggest I was simply checking the right boxes to get the opportunities I had. But looking back, I see the reality: I applied for and was invited to conferences across the country and secured internships at Stanford, Genentech, and in Japan. No matter how strong my resume was, there were always going to be people who didn’t think I belonged. And that’s how I overcame imposter syndrome—I realized that to the wrong people, I was never going to be "good enough." Instead of seeking their validation, I focused on my own confidence and growth mindset, knowing I was excelling in my own right.
Science isn’t just for the naturally gifted—it’s for the curious, the persistent, and those willing to ask questions. If you’re just starting, take foundational courses in biology and chemistry, seek out research opportunities, and find a supportive community like SACNAS. Success in science isn’t about being the smartest person in the room—it’s about resilience, learning from setbacks, and surrounding yourself with people who uplift you.
In science, I have been inspired by the researchers of color, especially the women who paved the way for underrepresented scientists—reminders that representation matters, and that diversity brings fresh perspectives to the field. My parents, who worked tirelessly to provide for our family, instilled in me the values of hard work and perseverance. Looking ahead, I hope to continue my research in organelle dynamics and lipid storage as a postdoc, with the long-term goal of understanding how cellular quality control influences aging and longevity. Through it all, I’ve learned that no matter where you are—whether it be in the orchards of California’s Central Valley picking oranges or at Harvard Medical School pursuing a postdoc—the key to success is finding a community that supports you.

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Silmara Furtado - Chemical Engineering

2/12/2025

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Silmara Furtado is a trailblazer in Green Chemistry and Biofuels, combining academic excellence with practical innovation. As a PhD candidate in Chemical Engineering at PUC-Rio (Brazil) and former Petrobras R&D engineer, she has advanced green technologies for producing olefins from ethanol. Her expertise spans process optimization, techno-economic studies, and economic analysis. Through her leadership in the ACS UFRJ Student Chapter and dedication to mentorship, Silmara champions sustainable and commercially viable solutions. She is shaping a future where science fosters both environmental and economic progress.

My journey into STEM is rooted in a lifelong curiosity about sustainability and a determination to make a meaningful impact on the world. Coming from a big Luso-Brazilian family of lawyers and merchants, I am the first to pursue a career in Chemical Engineering, driven by a deep-seated interest in sustainability from a young age.
My fascination began during school activities focused on recycling, where I engaged in both storytelling and hands-on projects that nurtured my passion for sustainable processes. Growing up in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, I was also deeply curious about major environmental events like Rio-92 (1992) and Rio+20 (2012). I often heard relatives and teachers discuss these milestones, which inspired me to explore their significance and broadened my understanding of global sustainability efforts.
Throughout my school years, I had a natural aptitude for the exact and natural sciences, excelling in subjects like Chemistry, Physics, and Mathematics. In contrast, I found History and Geography more challenging, ultimately influencing my decision to study Chemical Engineering. My first contact with Chemistry came in the final year of middle school (considering the Brazilian education system), and I immediately found the subject fascinating and intuitive. By my second year of high school, I was certain I wanted to pursue a university degree related to Chemistry. I loved Organic Chemistry, especially topics involving petrochemical processes. I also enjoyed helping my friends with their Chemistry questions (they often commented on my ability to explain complex topics clearly), which inspired me to pursue - respectively - degrees in Chemical Engineering and Education with a focus on Chemistry.
I completed both my undergraduate degrees at the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), where I took full advantage of the academic opportunities available to me: (1) I participated as a scientific initiation student and an engineering intern in Petrobras R&D projects, presenting and publishing academic papers; (2) I was a member of an extension project on Circular Economy, where I helped organize a workshop on the topic in partnership with companies and co-authored three books on Circular Economy and its business models, one in Portuguese and two in English; (3) Additionally, I volunteered as a Chemistry teacher in three admission courses for Brazilian universities; and (5) was invited to join as chair of the ACS UFRJ Student Chapter, an American Chemical Society international student chapter based in Federal University of Rio de Janeiro and dedicated to promoting Green Chemistry in Brazil (and internationally during the pandemic years).
When I was finishing my undergraduate studies, I was invited by Professor Dr. Peter Seidl to join the ACS UFRJ Student Chapter, where he served as an advisor. He had been my professor in two courses related to organic processes in the oil and gas sector and an introduction to Green Chemistry. Upon officially joining the group, I discovered that I would be the student chapter president. This was a massive challenge for me because I had struggled with public speaking since childhood. Presenting projects, talking to groups of unfamiliar people, and even asking questions to professors were terrifying experiences. Additionally, I had no prior experience in leading groups - let alone one as large as the student chapter, which had over 25 members. I am deeply grateful for the understanding and support of Dr. Peter Seidl, as well as my fellow chapter members. Some were also shy or introverted, while others had no difficulty communicating.
Serving as the student chapter president for five years (2019–2024) is an experience I will forever treasure. It was an environment where I formed lasting friendships, was exposed to various types of presentations and academic works, and developed teaching and learning methodologies for Green Chemistry across educational levels. My public speaking skills and interpersonal relationships were completely transformed - I became a different person. Moreover, I expanded my network with Brazilian and international professionals working in Green Chemistry. This was extremely rewarding, as we live in an increasingly connected world. Beyond the American Chemical Society, I am also affiliated with other institutions and initiatives in STEM, such as the Royal Society of Chemistry, LatinX in Chem, and LatinX in ChE, the minority affairs community of AIChE.
As a Christian, I also participated in Bible study groups formed by students from various engineering and related fields, where, in addition to learning about practicing the Christian faith, I built solid friendships that have been genuine support in both my everyday and academic life, remaining with me to this day. This group of friends helped me build and consolidate my academic purpose of working in something I had a natural talent for and was also learning at university, which could benefit society.
Participating in Petrobras R&D projects was particularly transformative, as it gave me my first exposure to biofuels (biodiesel) and sustainable alternative pathways. This experience fundamentally changed my perspective, helping me move away from the idea of linking Chemical Engineering exclusively to petroleum and opening my mind to broader applications and sustainable innovations. This curiosity and passion led me to pursue a master's in Technology of Chemical and Biochemical Processes at UFRJ and eventually embark on a PhD in Chemical Engineering at PUC-Rio.
Along the way, I’ve worked on impactful projects, such as developing green technologies to produce olefins from ethanol, conducting techno-economic feasibility studies, and optimizing alcohol-chemical and petrochemical processes using Aspen Hysys and Python. My experiences in academia and industry, including contributing to Petrobras R&D initiatives, have shown me that science can drive both environmental and economic progress.
My advice for anyone looking to enter STEM is to start with curiosity and persistence. Seek research opportunities during your undergraduate studies, connect with mentors who inspire you, and never hesitate to ask questions or explore new fields. For young girls interested in STEM, it’s crucial to believe in your capabilities and not let societal biases dim your passion. Science needs diverse perspectives, and your unique experiences and insights are valuable.
I knew I wanted to pursue this field when I realized chemistry's profound impact on creating sustainable solutions. However, the journey has its challenges. The most difficult part is navigating the constant need to prove the relevance and viability of innovative solutions in a world often resistant to change. Despite this, the opportunity to make a tangible difference keeps me motivated. With my degree, one can explore careers in academia, industrial R&D, sustainability consulting, or even entrepreneurship focused on green technologies.
My next steps involve advancing the frontiers of green chemistry and biofuels by bridging academia and industry through innovative R&D projects. At the same time, I am passionate about mentoring the next generation of scientists, equipping them with the skills and confidence to tackle the challenges of a sustainable future. Reflecting on my journey, I would choose this path again without hesitation—every challenge has strengthened my determination and deepened my purpose.
A common misconception about my work is that it's purely theoretical. In reality, it is a dynamic interplay of innovation, practical application, and collaboration. The ability to merge scientific theory with real-world solutions is what makes this field so rewarding and impactful.
While my career has followed some traditional milestones, such as advancing from undergraduate studies to a PhD, it has also been enriched by non-linear experiences. Leading the ACS UFRJ Student Chapter and taking on teaching roles allowed me to grow unexpectedly, shaping my skills as a communicator, leader, and mentor. Mentoring students and watching them evolve into confident, capable scientists is the most fulfilling of all the aspects of my work.
Though the salary in this field varies based on role and location, my true motivation lies in the impact of the work. Knowing that my contributions can drive both environmental progress and societal benefits keeps me energized and focused on the future.
To pursue a STEM career, expect at least 5–6 years for a master's or PhD, but the timeline depends on your chosen field and goals. My educational background is rooted in a deep commitment to sustainable innovation, inspired by my mentors and the growing need for greener solutions. Growing up, I didn't have a single role model, but I've always admired those who broke barriers and used science to create change.
To my fellow Latinas pursuing STEM, I say this: your heritage and perspective are your strengths. Embrace them, find your community, and don't let anyone make you feel you don’t belong in science. The world needs your voice and your vision.

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My STEM Journey - Cambria Rodriguez

12/8/2024

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Cambria Rodriquez is a bioarcheologist currently conducting PhD research focused on Mexica (Aztec) children. Her research uses biomolecular, osteological, and archaeological analysis to reconstruct the lives of children ritually killed. She has participated in fieldwork and worked in museum collections around the world

My name is Cambria Rodriguez, and I am a Mexican-American bioarchaeology currently pursuing my PhD at University College London. My research takes a bioarchaeological approach incorporating dendrochronology and geographic information system (GIS), to investigate climatic and socio-political motivations for the ritual killing of Mexica (Aztec) children. Historically, the study of ancient Mesoamerican civilizations has heavily relied on colonial interpretations which are known to present Western and religious biases. I hope my research will transform the way researchers engage with colonial sources and strive towards utilizing scientific techniques to decolonize the voices of children lost in ancient history.
Archaeology as a discipline has struggled with its identity- is it a social science? Humanities? Science? Archaeology is a bit of everything which is why I fell in love with it. Archaeologists study people who lived in the past through the material remains they leave behind; anything from discarded food to skeletal remains can give great insight into how past humans lived. Because archaeologists’ study such a vast time of history and varied artifacts, many have specialisms. My specialist training is in human osteology, the study of bones, and my area of focus is Mexico, particularly, the Mexica, where ancient ruins lie beneath today’s Mexico City.
It is a wide misconception that all archaeologists do is dig. Archaeology today is transforming quicker than ever thanks to advancements in technology and science. Bioarchaeology (biology and archaeology) is the study of human skeletal remains to understand the lives of individuals and communities that lived in the past. Through bioarchaeological science, and using methods such as genetic and isotopic analysis, human remains can shed insight on health, lifestyle, diet, mortality, and physique of past peoples.
The broad discipline of archaeology allows for many different career pathways. I have held various roles in the field including teaching university courses, field archaeologist, and museum curator. I have been lucky enough to have worked around the world from Los Angeles to Hawaii, and England to Australia doing what I love.
I truly enjoy sharing all the highs and lows of my personal experiences with others to hopefully help guide them on their own journeys. I have faced many struggles that most (if not all) Latinas can relate to: identity crisis, leaving home for opportunities, pressure to be successful, financial security, the list goes on! My career pathway was not traditional or straightforward. I have been a student on and off for over ten years now and I began my academic career studying history and global politics. I have always had an interest in Latin American and Indigenous history. Growing up I found it frustrating that I did not know much about my heritage and struggled with my own identity. Born and raised in California, which has the largest Mexican American population in the United States, the history of my ancestors never made it into the curriculum. Until attending college, I relied on the oral histories of my grandmother to learn more about my heritage. While doing my undergraduate research, I realized Instead of writing about the past as a historian, I wanted to be out in the field, or lab, actively working to piece together the unknown.
I planned to have my PhD by the time I was 30 years old…That’s not happening! It’s okay when things don’t work out the way you plan and it's okay to go at your own pace. Do not compare your journey to others. Good things take time and it is important you enjoy and take advantage of every moment in the process. I have never ever turned down an opportunity for growth which has led me to some interesting jobs in places I only dreamed of going to. Archaeologists are immensely underpaid and underappreciated, but I can’t imagine being in any other profession.
Since I was a child, it was always my goal to become a doctor and like many Latinas, I was the first in my family to attend graduate school. It hasn’t been an easy road. I didn’t know where to start, how to do it, and I definitely didn’t plan to end up on the other side of the globe away from everyone and everything I know. Many people see my accomplishments and assume I am excelling in all aspects of life. It's not uncommon for Latinos to venture away from home to provide for and inspire their families. However, it isn’t discussed enough how extremely emotionally, mentally, and financially difficult it is. I find comfort and strength in knowing I am not alone, and I am grateful I have had the best support from family and friends (and platforms like Latinas in STEM!) through all the trials and triumphs.
Growing up I did not know what a successful female archaeologist looked like and it’s hard to be what you cannot see. Archaeology seemed like a fantasized job that only men with whips and good looks could achieve. I hope that I can become the role model for young aspiring female archaeologists that I wished to see growing up.
After completing my PhD, I intend to publish my research in both English and Spanish languages. I am excited to see how scientific advancements continue to evolve the study of archaeology. I hope in the future I am given the opportunity to conduct more bioarchaeological research on people that are often overlooked in the historical record and work within the heritage sector educating communities about our ancient past.

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My STEM Journey - Cibele Pinto, PhD

11/1/2024

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From Bench to Bedside, and Beyond: A Personal Journey of Career Charge and Drug Discovery

Cibele Pinto, PhD – Director of Global Medical Strategy (Nephrology), Otsuka Pharmaceuticals

I was born and raised in a beautiful city [on] the Northeast coast of Brazil called Fortaleza. After completing my pharmacy degree, I moved to the United States to pursue my PhD in pharmacology and toxicology at the University of Kansas. I subsequently completed a postdoctoral fellowship at the University of Kansas Medical Center. I currently work as a director of global medical affairs at Otsuka, leading global medical strategy for a drug portfolio that focuses on finding therapies to address unmet needs for kidney diseases.

I have always been curious about life, and my curiosity was a seed that found fertile ground in science. I was particularly interested in medicine development and finding ways to better the lives of people suffering from diseases with no viable treatment options. I got accepted to pharmacy school in Brazil at the age of 17 and worked as a research assistant in the laboratory of physiology and pharmacology, focusing on validating the safety and efficacy of the natural medicines used in my community. This RA position strengthened my decision to follow the research path for my career. Graduate school seemed to be the natural next step for me.

During my last semester in pharmacy school, I found myself for the first time at a career crossroads. I had been offered a position in Brazil to pursue my PhD as a continuation of my existing research, but this opportunity arose when a chance to move to the United States also came about. There were a lot of potential risks associated with this new opportunity that I had to consider. I moved to the U.S. in 2001, knowing no English, having very little money, but at least I had a brand-new shiny pharmacist diploma that would need to be validated so I could practice in the United States. My student visa focused on pursuing English as a Second Language classes (ESL) as well as an interview at the University of Kansas department of Pharmacology and Toxicology. My first interview was in March 2001. The feedback included “must speak better English.” I poured myself into studying English. By November that year I was semi-fluent and passed the GRE and TOFEL. I came back for a second interview knowing very well that a major roadblock was my inability to afford the tuition. After many rounds of interviews, I received an offer letter in the mail accompanied by a scholarship from the most generous woman named Barbara Bishop. Barabara picked me to be one of her recipients, and the scholarship paid for my tuition, books, and supplies for five years of graduate school! I will never be able to thank her enough. Her generous heart to invest in my education and my love for science and research opened up a door that impacted my life, the life of my family in Brazil, and the lives of my children forever.

My newly acquired language skills, coupled with homesickness and cultural shock, all made for a very difficult first semester in graduate school. However, perseverance, newly formed friendships, and my love for science kept me moving on. My research [led me] to yet another crossroads. The animal model I was studying did not work. Instead of scraping the project and starting from ground zero at year two, I was challenged by a young professor named Roland Seifert to be curious, seek the answers through research, and determine why the results were negative. For the next two years, I embarked on a biochemistry and pharmacology adventure that led me to acquire greater curiosity about new subjects. This eventually led to the field of work I have been passionate about for seventeen years now. My PhD research on G protein couple receptors landed me a postdoctoral fellowship at the National Institute of Health where I would dig deeper into molecular biology but further from translational research. However, true to the many unexpected turns my career had taken before, I was approached by Dr. Jared Grantham from the University of Kansas Medical Center who had read some of my published papers and thought that my skill set would fit nicely into his lifelong quest to find a treatment for autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD). That encounter was yet again another life-altering moment.

After much consideration, I made the decision to stay in Kansas and join the Kidney Institute at the University of Kansas Medical Center to pursue translational research with the prospect of helping patients attain treatment options for ADPKD in the near future. Drs. Darren Wallace, James Calvet, Alan Yu, and Robin Maser, each inspired me to ask the hard scientific questions, to write grants, to publish, and present in major scientific conferences. Dr. Grantham challenged me to think critically. His passion was truly contagious. He also taught me how academia and pharma can collaborate for the greater good of patients. Through such collaboration I was able to witness the entire life cycle of a treatment from an idea to bench research and all the way to the first approved therapy to bring hope to patients. Fifteen amazing years transpired between pharmacy school, grad school, postdoctoral fellowship, and a career shift to leave academia and join pharma.

I joined Otsuka eleven years ago as a medical science liaison and was fortunate to have such amazing mentors like Dr.Linda McCormick. She helped me develop my business acumen and learn how my scientific background and personality could help me succeed in pharma. Through mentorship, hard work, and my company’s commitment to diversity and inclusion, I have been able to fulfill my lifelong dream to transform peoples’ lives through science. I was able to carve a career path that I am very proud of and still have so much to look forward to.

Scholarships, mentorship, support from family and friends, and a dash of tenacity have helped me bridge the gap between opportunity and achievement that is so common among Latinos/Hispanics in STEM. Of course, in the middle of all these years pursuing my scientific career, life happened; marriage, a cross-continent move, learning a new language, homesickness, new friends, becoming a mother during the first year as a postdoc, an unexpected divorce, sudden single parenthood, growth, dual citizenship, and eventually remarriage and motherhood once again. Writing this feels cathartic, and I want to normalize the reality that career and life do not run in parallel lines—they are intertwined. All my career decisions were heavily influenced by the pursuit of happiness, fulfillment, and stability for myself and the people I love. I continue to count on the support of my husband, Chad Bourgeois, and my sweet kids Lyla (16) and Lucas (8).

My journey in STEM and higher education has not been an easy one, but it has been incredibly exciting and rewarding. I was the first person in my huge family to have ever been given the privilege to attend college. My grandparents, parents, uncles, and aunts did not have the opportunity to complete even middle school because working to help support their families was a more urgent need and priority. My parents had a dream for their children, knowing very well that education was the way to break out of generational poverty. I built upon their dreams and was able to walk through uncharted territory by developing a career in STEM. As I write this, my heart swells up with gratitude for their sacrifice, and I know very well that my career in STEM truly rests on their shoulders.

If I had any advice for Latinas who are considering a career in STEM, it is to be bold, dream big, take chances, go for the interview, show them your talent, back it up with hard work, create your own path, and challenge the current status quo of Latinas holding only 2% of STEM jobs.

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My STEM Journey - Michelle Rojas

My STEM Journey - Sandra Flores-Castillo

My STEM Journey - Dr. Xiolmara Martinez

My STEM Journey - Chloe Urias

My STEM Journey - Sandra Isidro

My STEM Journey - Dr. Karla Del Cid-Ledezma

My STEM Journey - Iris Montes

Silmara Furtado - Chemical Engineering

My STEM Journey - Cambria Rodriguez

My STEM Journey - Cibele Pinto, PhD

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