CTS Ph.D. Student Marisela Rodriguez Awarded NIH F31 Predoctoral Fellowship

Marisela Rodriguez, a Clinical Translational Sciences Ph.D. student, has been awarded a highly sought after F31 predoctoral fellowship by the National Institute on Aging (NIA), one of the National Institutes of Health.  Ms. Rodriguez, who earned her CTS M.S. degree in 2020, will use the support from the NIA to complete her dissertation research examining a “Novel mechanism for eNAMPT secretion in PAH vascular remodeling” while working in the laboratory of her mentor Dr. Joe G.N. “Skip” Garcia (recently relocated from UArizona to the University of Florida).

Ms. Rodriguez commented on her F31 award, stating “I feel incredibly thankful for the exceptional mentorship provided by Dr. Garcia, and I am privileged to contribute to the remarkable work carried out by the numerous talented individuals in the Garcia Lab. This award will aid in funding approaches to further elucidate the critical role of NAMPT in pulmonary hypertension and multiple inflammatory diseases. I am thankful to those who have inspired a voracity for science in me and to those who have supported me to this point. This award further motivates dedication.”

Dr. Garcia adds, “I am truly amazed by Marisela's unwavering determination and resilience throughout this application process. She possesses exceptional research skills and unquestionably deserves this award. I am confident that this achievement will serve as a catalyst for her groundbreaking research. I eagerly anticipate witnessing the remarkable contributions Marisela will make, as she is bound to revolutionize the field.”