PI and Director

I'm Maria Fernanda, a Latina scientist originally from Colombia. I earned my biology degree with a minor in Entomology from Universidad del Valle before moving to Puerto Rico to pursue my master’s and doctorate in biology at the University of Puerto Rico. Transitioning into academia, I became a professor at various local Puerto Rican universities and am currently affiliated with the InterAmerican University of Puerto Rico Metropolitan Campus.

Throughout my career, I've focused on two primary areas: the role of arthropods in ecosystems and student teaching/learning processes, particularly in non-traditional settings. I've cultivated these interests through successful collaborations with communities, scientists, agencies, and institutions both within and outside Puerto Rico.

As a mentor for projects such as Islands Alliance and Navigating Home, I feel privileged to pursue my passions with the support of numerous collaborators. Committed to my mentees, I utilize my skills to support them in achieving their objectives in ways that resonate with them.

Reflecting on my journey, I emphasize the importance of collaboration in STEM careers, which are often perceived as solitary endeavors. I credit collaborations for introducing me to invaluable connections, personal growth opportunities, and impacting my professional trajectory. Through mentoring, I aim to instill in my students the significance of collaboration, encouraging them to embrace this mindset as they progress in their own careers.

Co-PI

I'm an Assistant Professor of Microbiology at Inter American University of Puerto Rico, Metro Campus (Inter Metro), and I lead the Microbial Ecology Lab, affectionately known as Lab 401, established in Spring 2021. Before diving into academia, I explored various roles with non-profits in informal STEM education and innovation and lent my expertise as a consultant.

Jumping back into academia after years off the field has been an absolute delight! There's nothing I enjoy more than mentoring students, helping navigate this exciting phase of their lives.

My current research explores how atmospheric events might affect atmospheric microorganisms and the spatial and temporal patterns of microbial communities in Fajardo's bioluminescent lagoon.

Beyond my campus duties, I serve on Casa Pueblo's Board of Directors—a grassroots organization in Adjuntas, Puerto Rico—and preside over the Caribbean Division of the American Association for the Advancement of Science.

With Navigating Home, I'm thrilled to mentor our Short-term fellows and am excited to continue supporting and guiding our fellows and students in the years to come.

Program Mentor

I am the Lead Mentor for the Navigating Home program, for the Puerto Rico Hub. I am trained in Imagination and Intentional Mentoring by Dr. Maggie Washburne from the University of New Mexico and The Mentoring Institute.

My formal education is as a Computer Engineer with a master's in mathematics and Statistics from the University of Puerto Rico in Mayagüez. This expertise provides me with a solid knowledge to train participants in foundational knowledge in mathematics and statistics.

As the lead mentor in the Navigating Home program, my philosophy shows commitment to support participants as they progress through their academic and professional development, specially as they transition through different professional stages, such as transitioning from recent graduate to their first work experience, the focus of the Navigating Home project: the Workforce Fellows.

I provide individualized and group mentoring through the iconic activity called "Cafesito mentoreado" (mentoring coffee), I promote a creative and trusting environment where participants can share their concerns and challenges. My goal is to offer guidance on topics that impact their academic, professional, and personal lives, helping them with academic challenges and strengthening skills to face workplace challenges. My approach is to be a constant support, promoting a holistic growth that allows them to reach their fullest potential.

I greatly enjoy interacting with fellows, each interaction is an opportunity for mutual learning and growth. I am deeply committed to fostering teamwork and contributing to their motivation and professional development.

Aligned with the project’s goals, I aim at supporting and developing new leaders for the next workforce generation, advocating for the values of commitment, respect, and inclusion within our community. I am dedicated to the success and well-being of my mentees, and I feel fortunate to have the opportunity to play a role in shaping their holistic being.