About Me
I am a fourth-year PhD student in Cellular Biology at the University of Georgia, working in the Tarleton Lab. My research focuses on antigenic variation and DNA recombination in Trypanosoma cruzi, the protozoan parasite that causes Chagas disease. I am particularly interested in understanding how rapidly and extensively antigenic diversity is generated and maintained in parasite populations during infection within the host.
My training bridges wet lab molecular parasitology and bioinformatics. Over the course of my PhD, I have integrated computational analyses into my research while working with Nanopore sequencing and genomics. As part of this interdisciplinary focus, I am also pursuing a Graduate Certificate in Bioinformatics, for which BIOS8060E is a required course.
Experience in Programming and Statistics
I have experience working with Linux and Python, and I have completed several bioinformatics focused courses through the IOB department, including Python Programming, Genome Analysis and Programming, and Data Structures for Bioinformatics. I routinely run genomics analyses on Sapelo2 and am comfortable using tools such as pandas, matplotlib, ggplot2, and applying basic statistical tests.
Through this course, I hope to strengthen my theoretical understanding of statistical modeling and improve how I structure, analyze, and communicate results.
Interesting Data Analysis Material
One visualization resource I particularly enjoy is the Color Palette Finder for R, an interactive tool that helps explore and select color palettes for R graphics. Itβs especially useful for making plots both clear and visually beautiful! Color Palette Finder for R
A Bit More About Me
I am originally from Brazil and moved to the United States to pursue my PhD. I am deeply interested in neglected diseases and in developing research approaches that can help address their health problems. Outside the lab, I love doing yoga and am completely obsessed with my cats ππ.
