Assistant Professor

I am an Assistant Professor of Chemistry at the University of Puerto Rico–Humacao with research and teaching interests in biochemistry, biotechnology, nanomedicine, and STEM education. I earned my B.S. in Industrial Chemistry from the University of Puerto Rico–Humacao and my Ph.D. in Chemistry (Biochemistry and Biotechnology) from the University of Puerto Rico–Río Piedras, followed by postdoctoral training in Bioorganic Chemistry and Biotechnology. My research focuses on the design and characterization of nanocarrier systems for the intracellular delivery of therapeutic molecules, including siRNA, proteins, and drug compounds for cancer-related applications. My work integrates biophysical characterization, biomolecular interactions, and targeted drug delivery approaches, and has resulted in peer-reviewed publications and presentations at national and international scientific conferences. In parallel, I conduct education research centered on active learning, flipped instruction, inclusive teaching practices, and STEM student success at Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSIs). My recent work in introductory chemistry education has explored the impact of evidence-based and inclusive pedagogies on student performance, retention, and sense of belonging in STEM environments. I currently collaborate on several educational and research initiatives, including the NSF-supported DIVAS project and the Puerto Rico Outstanding Undergraduate & Diversified (PROUD) program, where I contribute to curriculum development, math self-efficacy assessment, and inclusive excellence in STEM education. I also serve as a PULSE Ambassador supporting institutional transformation through systems-thinking approaches to undergraduate science education. I am deeply committed to student mentorship, interdisciplinary collaboration, workforce development in biotechnology and biomanufacturing, and expanding access to high-quality STEM education and research opportunities for underrepresented students.