Brilliant, Dedicated, Insightful

"I am delighted to recommend Rocío for this award, as her impact on my lab and our wider research community has been truly exceptional. Rocio joined my lab three years ago to pursue her PhD in biotechnology and molecular biology, and since then, she has consistently demonstrated a remarkable combination of intelligence, passion, and resilience that sets her apart as a young scientist. Rocio recently published her first-author paper, marking a significant milestone in her doctoral journey. Additionally, she has co-authored two other papers from our lab, showcasing her collaborative spirit and intellectual contributions across projects. Her capacity to bring insight and rigor to her work has proven invaluable, and she approaches each research challenge with a sense of purpose and dedication that inspires her peers and me. Rocío’s work ethic and commitment extend beyond her research, as she regularly collaborates with other PhD students and labs, contributing ideas, support, and genuine enthusiasm. One of Rocío’s most admirable qualities is her perseverance. Despite significant science budget cuts in Argentina, she has remained focused on her thesis work, adapting her approach and finding innovative ways to advance her research despite resource limitations. Her resilience and positive attitude under challenging circumstances exemplify her deep commitment to science and discovery, and she serves as a role model for others in the lab who face similar obstacles. Beyond her technical achievements, Rocio is empathetic and supportive, creating a welcoming atmosphere in our lab. Her kindness, coupled with her sharp intellect, makes her an exceptional collaborator and mentor. Her positive energy and willingness to support others make her not only a vital member of our team but also a source of inspiration for me as her supervisor. Rocío’s contributions to our lab have left an indelible mark, and I am certain her future in science will be filled with even more impressive achievements. She embodies the resilience, dedication, and passion that this award celebrates, and I strongly recommend her for this “Lab Hero” honor."

Nominated by Camila Scorticati, Molecular and Cellular Neurobiology, Instituto de Investigaciones Biotecnológicas (IIBio-CONICET) Universidad de San Martin (UNSAM), Argentina