I am a Ph.D. candidate in Biology at Temple University, working under the mentorship of Dr. Ananias A. Escalante. My research focuses on the ecology, epidemiology, and evolution of infectious diseases, with an emphasis on Plasmodium species. By integrating genomic data with environmental and epidemiological information, I aim to uncover the mechanisms underlying pathogen adaptation and disease transmission. Through this interdisciplinary approach, my work bridges perspectives from population genetics, ecology, and evolutionary biology to improve our understanding of disease emergence and control.

My academic path began at the National University of Colombia, where I earned a bachelor’s degree in biology. There, I joined the GERPH research group, gaining expertise in parasitology, molecular biology, and ecology. Building on these experiences, I pursued a Master’s degree at the same institution under the supervision of Dr. Matta. My master’s thesis, titled Characterization of the Haemoproteus (Haemoproteus) columbae Genome: A Tool for the Evolutionary Study of the Haemosporida Order, was recognized with a laureate mention and later published. This work laid the groundwork for my current studies, as it introduced me to advanced genomic techniques and comparative analyses for investigating parasitic organisms.

At Temple University, I am involved with the Department of Biology and iGEM, where I continue to refine my skills in comparative genomics and population genetics. My projects seek to illuminate patterns of genetic diversity within Plasmodium spp. and to identify key evolutionary processes shaping pathogen populations. Ultimately, I aim to contribute to more effective strategies for controlling and preventing parasitic diseases on a global scale.

By fostering interdisciplinary collaborations and leveraging cutting-edge genomic tools, I am committed to advancing the field of infectious disease research. I strive to develop a comprehensive understanding of disease systems, thereby informing public health interventions and helping mitigate the impact of parasitic infections worldwide.

And my webpage: https://asgiraldoc.github.io/