Yuliana Alexandra Díaz Tirado’s journey began on the captivating island of Puerto Rico, where she discovered her passion for science in a typical classroom. Learning about the complexities of the human body and the concept of homeostasis fascinated her and ignited a lifelong curiosity. The arrival of Hurricane Maria in 2017 was a pivotal moment that significantly shaped her character and strengthened her commitment to helping others. Witnessing the struggles of those around her with their health and quality of life inspired her to pursue a career where she could make a meaningful impact through scientific inquiry.
Díaz Tirado earned a bachelor’s degree in molecular and cell biology in 2023 from the University of Puerto Rico, Río Piedras. During her time there, she was awarded an Honor’s scholarship that supported her tuition throughout her studies. Under the mentorship of Dr. Brad Weiner, she conducted research focusing on synthesizing graphene with high electrical conductivity and its potential environmental applications. This experience refined her skills in material synthesis and experimental techniques. Additionally, she worked in Dr. Esther Peterson's lab, identifying potential genomic translocations linked to Inflammatory breast cancer. This work deepened her understanding of cancer biology and underscored the importance of translating research findings into clinical applications.
After graduating, Díaz Tirado participated in the NIH Postbaccalaureate Research Education Program (PREP) at UC Berkeley, working in Dr. Hernan Garcia's lab. There she developed technologies to identify transcription factor binding sites within enhancers, unraveling their roles in gene expression and development. This cutting-edge research further fueled her passion for genetics and cancer biology, driving her to pursue a PhD to explore the complexities of gene expression and its implications for human health. With a commitment to transforming scientific discoveries into tangible solutions for the betterment of society, Díaz Tirado is dedicated to making a meaningful impact through her research.
Hometown: Puerto Rico