Visionary, Esteemed, Influential

"Nomination of Dr. Eduardo Javier Lopez Soto for the Lab Heroes Award: It is with great enthusiasm that I nominate Dr. Lopez Soto for the Lab Heroes Award, as his mentorship has been pivotal to my academic and professional development. Since I joined his lab, Dr. Lopez Soto has demonstrated unwavering commitment to my growth, helping me pursue and achieve opportunities I never thought possible. Dr. Lopez Soto’s ability to challenge me intellectually has shaped my scientific journey. Whether providing insights into experimental design or introducing new methodologies, he encourages creative thinking and problem-solving. One notable example is our collaboration with a genome analysis company in France, where I worked with a bioinformatician at our university to analyze RNA sequencing data in a splicing-sensitive way. Dr. Lopez Soto’s support in this project expanded my skills and deepened my understanding of neurogenetics. Beyond the lab, Dr. Lopez Soto empowered me to reach new heights. He encouraged me to apply for the Marine Biological Sciences Department’s summer neuroscience course, where I received full funding and a scholarship to attend the 2024 Society for Neuroscience (SfN) Meeting. This experience not only expanded my technical knowledge in light sheet microscopy and zebrafish research but also allowed me to connect with leading scientists, thanks to his belief in my potential. He also guided me through the application process for the SfN Neuroscience Scholars Program, where I gained additional exposure to neuroscience leaders and further expanded my professional network. Dr. Lopez Soto’s influence goes beyond his direct mentorship. He fosters a collaborative environment, encouraging cross-lab partnerships that enrich our collective research. His support was instrumental to my success at the Genetics, Genomics, and Bioinformatics Symposium, where I won the Best Poster Presentation Award for my work on alternative splicing in sensory neurons. Most significantly, Dr. Lopez Soto has taught me how to lead. Over the past two years, I have mentored four graduate students, and his example of patience, hands-on teaching, and dedication to their success has shaped my own approach to mentorship. In conclusion, Dr. Lopez Soto’s mentorship has been transformative in my development as a scientist and future mentor. His guidance, belief in my potential, and commitment to my growth make him the most deserving candidate for the Lab Heroes Award. Sincerely, Quiana Mosley, B.S. Molecular Biomedical Sciences Department North Carolina State University"

Nominated by Quiana Mosley, Lopez Soto / Molecular Biomedical Sciences Department, North Carolina State University, United States