Second Year
San Juan Bautista School of Medicine
I am Héctor L. Figueroa Monsanto, currently in my second year at San Juan Bautista School of Medicine. My academic roots are in chemistry, with an undergraduate degree from the University of Puerto Rico at Cayey, after starting my journey at Centro Residencial de Oportunidades Educativas de Mayaguez (CROEM). These experiences ignited my passion for science and set me on a path of discovery and research.
Throughout my academic career, I have engaged in varied research projects, including studies on the spectroscopic signatures of LixV2O5, devaluation of alcohol reward and iDisco brain mapping, as well as developing a compartmental model for Chlamydia Trachomatis to understand its transmission dynamics better. My post-baccalaureate experience at the NIH/NIDA IRP under Dr. Bradberry in the Behavioral Neuroscience Branch and Pre-Clinical Pharmacology Section from 2019 to 2022 was particularly transformative. It introduced me to pre-clinical work with primates, deepening my understanding of neuroscience and honing my research skills.
Additionally, I have developed technical skills in programming languages like Python and Scilab, which have proven invaluable in my research endeavors. My leadership roles in the Clinical Mentoring Program at NIH/NIDA, the RISE Program at the University of Puerto Rico, and the American Chemical Society have allowed me to contribute to the scientific community and grow professionally.
Recently, my interests have evolved toward interventional radiology, a field that captivates me with its potential to integrate my chemistry background with cutting-edge medical interventions. This area represents a new frontier in my ongoing journey in medicine and research, highlighting my commitment to advancing healthcare through innovation.
As I prepare to participate in the research conference, I am excited to share my journey and insights, hoping to connect with fellow researchers and professionals who are equally passionate about making a difference in the world of medicine.
