Reflecting on my scientific journey, I am reminded of my childhood days spent crafting origami paper airplanes. Each fold and launch sparked a curiosity that lingered long after the planes landed. Each fold and launch piqued an interest that persisted long after the planes landed. In those moments, I was not just playing. I was experimenting and developing hypotheses about flight dynamics. The simplicity of folding paper allowed for reflection to the complexities of life itself. In addition, I developed a fascination for learning about neuroscience and evolution. Growing up with Spanish as my first language, learning English posed a formidable challenge. However, in the field of STEM, I discovered a universal language which provided a sense of inclusion and belonging. Looking back, those innocent flights of imagination laid the groundwork for a lifelong pursuit of understanding the world through scientific lenses.
My parents immigrated from Mexico to the United States to seek better financial opportunities. Regardless of the challenges that my family faced as immigrants to the United States and their unfamiliarity with the college experience, they instilled in me a belief in my abilities and a determination to pursue higher education. Their unwavering determination in the face of adversity became a source of inspiration for me, as I realized the transformative power of education. In 2020, I finished my undergraduate studies at California State University, Los Angeles (CSULA). I graduated from CSULA with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biochemistry with a minor in Criminal Justice. This achievement held great significance for me, as it represented the culmination of my resilience and determination in overcoming the obstacles I faced.
During my 3rd year of my undergraduate studies, I realized that my passion for science would lead me to apply to graduate school. Thus, I decided to [seek research] opportunities to develop scientific skills, such as science communication, data collection, statistical analysis, and manuscript writing. I vividly recall attending a scientific talk at my undergraduate institution, where new faculty members were presenting their research, aiming to recruit undergraduate students. It was here that I met my first research mentor, Dr. Christine Scoffoni. She gave me the opportunity to join her lab, where I gained valuable hands-on experience in plant physiology.
Around this time, while engaging in my research pursuits, I also had the opportunity to work with incarcerated individuals through the Prison Education Project (PEP). This experience broadened my perspective of the cause and effect of substance-use disorders (SUDs). I grew up in an area with high crime rates and prevalent drug trafficking, and saw the severe impact of drug abuse on young adults, particularly in underrepresented communities. It became clear to me that the impact of SUDs extended beyond my community. Listening to firsthand accounts from individuals on how addiction impacted their lives while incarcerated and transitioning back into society broadened my understanding of the urgent need for a multidisciplinary approach that includes scientific research and advocacy. This volunteer experience resonated with me and led me to shift my research interests from ecology to addiction research. The exploration of the neurological and biological mechanisms that contribute to addiction became my focal point in pursuing research opportunities.
As a result, I pursued a research experience that allowed me to expand my skills and knowledge in neuroscience through the University of Southern California Neuroscience Experience Undergraduate Research and Learning Program (USC-NEURAL) the summer before my senior year. I had the opportunity to work as a full-time summer researcher under the direction of Dr. Lindsey Schier. Dr. Schier’s lab examines the neurobiological controls of feeding and appetite and how dysfunction in these systems leads to weight gain and obesity. I remember feeling a mix of excitement and apprehension as I transitioned from working with leaves to studying living organisms. Despite my initial fear, I was eager to find my place within the research community.
In 2019, my senior year of undergraduate studies, I attended the Society for Advancement of Chicanos/Hispanics and Native Americans in Science (SACNAS) conference. I learned about different programs to support underrepresented students that are interested in applying to graduate school. This event opened my eyes to the intricacies of the graduate school application process, which was an unfamiliar territory for me. Here, I was introduced and applied to the Post-Baccalaureate Research Education Program (PREP) at Indiana University Indianapolis, where I actively participated in preclinical addiction research. My scientific interests aligned with Dr. Stephen Boehm, who served as my mentor. As an IPREP fellow, my project focused on understanding the potential long-term effects of lead exposure during critical developmental stages and its impact on the behavioral responses to morphine. From creating a protocol, to data collection and analysis, being heavily involved in each step of the process was rewarding. This experience taught me how to be an independent researcher, and significantly increased my passion for research, leading me to apply for graduate school.
Currently, I am a graduate student at the University of New Mexico, where I am obtaining a Ph.D. in Biomedical Sciences specializing in Neuroscience, while working under the direction of Dr. David Linsenbardt. My research centers around the exploration of genes and genetic background in relation to substance use disorders, specifically the effects of repeated binge drinking on circadian rhythms and brain gene transcription.
In addition to my research pursuits, I am particularly passionate about mentoring and supporting undergraduate students on their path to graduate school. Having navigated the challenges and uncertainties of the undergraduate experience myself, I understand the importance of guidance and support in pursuing advanced degrees. I firmly believe in equal access to educational opportunities and resources for all individuals, regardless of their background or prior knowledge.
Considering my experiences and the knowledge I have acquired; the natural question arises: What's the next step in my career? For me, the answer lies in completing my Ph.D and beginning the transition into science policy. Specifically, I am passionate about applying my neuroscience knowledge to advocate for incarcerated individuals and combating the stigma surrounding substance abuse.