LGBTQ+ Pride Month

My fascination with science began during my undergraduate years in the early 1990s, fueled by a profound interest in finding a cure for HIV. Witnessing the devastating impact of HIV on the LGBTQ+ community, I was driven to understand the virus at a molecular level and explore potential therapeutic interventions. This initial curiosity sparked a passion for research and propelled me towards a career in science.

Simultaneously, I became deeply intrigued by the genetics and neuroscience of sexuality. Reading ‘The Science of Desire’ by Dean Hamer was the fuel that ignited my curiosity surrounding the genetic of complex traits. A fascination with the genetics of sexuality led me to the model organism Drosophila melanogaster and began to shape my academic trajectory. As an undergraduate at The University of Georgia I worked in a lab that used Drosophila models to study nuclear hormone signaling. Afterwards, I was accepted to the PhD program at Stony Brook on Long Island, NY which afforded the opportunity to rotate in labs at Cold Spring Harbor laboratory. My original interest in virology led me to join an immunology lab for my PhD work.

Being a gay Latino immigrant has had a profound impact on my journey as an infectious disease physician, providing me with a distinctive viewpoint that deeply influences my passion and sense of purpose in serving marginalized communities. I am wholeheartedly dedicated to addressing the unique challenges these groups encounter and actively acknowledge the discrimination, prejudice, and stigmatization they endure.

As an openly gay physician, I have the privilege of fostering a safe, nonjudgmental, and inclusive atmosphere where my patients can freely share their sexual orientation and gender identity without fear. This trust and openness allow me to provide personalized care, focusing on each patient's specific needs.