 B.S., Biological Sciences, Pontificia Universidade Catolica de Campinas, SP, Brazil
M.S., Microbiology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA
Email: roberta.zveibel.toporovski@drexel.edu
Advisor: Dr. Michele Kutzler
Thesis Research Summary:
Background and Interests: I am originally from Brazil, where I completed my undergrad education. In 2005 I moved to the US to do an internship at Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA working at an immunology laboratory. I became very interested in vaccine research and decided to complete a Master of Science degree in microbiology while working at Thomas Jefferson University. In 2009 I was hired at the University of Pennsylvania to work in a DNA vaccines laboratory. Living in Brazil made me acutely aware of the need for preventive measures instead of therapeutic options. A large percentage of the population in Brazil, like many other developing countries, has no access to medication, and public education is severely deficient. The rates of infectious diseases are high and controlling them is a big challenge. It was, therefore, natural for me to move towards vaccine research. My hobbies include running, cooking and traveling, usually to see my family that lives in Brazil. |