DISEASE ECOLOGY
Exploring how pathogen–host interactions shape and are shaped by ecological and evolutionary mechanisms and processes across environments and scales.
ABOUT ME
I am a quantitative ecologist. I was born and grew up in the Atlantic Forest of Brazil. Currently, I am a Postdoctoral Researcher Associate in the Bento Lab at the Department of Public and Ecosystem Health, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, USA.
What I do?
My research focuses on how pathogen–host interactions shape, and are shaped by, ecological and evolutionary mechanisms and processes across environments and scales, with a particular interest in arboviruses.
To achieve this, I integrate elements of ecology, evolutionary history, natural history, network science, mathematical modeling, and empirical data.
Why?
I am fascinated by the ecological and evolutionary dynamics of pathogen-host associations.
My goal is to turn scientific discoveries into practical guidance for policymakers and to help the public understand the risks of pathogen spread and the importance of taking action.
Key areas of research
My research focuses on exploring the following key questions:
Which ecological and evolutionary factors determine the spread, spillover, and outbreaks of arboviruses, and how?
How do host movements, together with environmental and climate changes, influence spillover events of arboviruses?
How does spillover shape the ecological and evolutionary dynamics of host-pathogen associations?
How can we effectively apply our scientific knowledge to safeguard wildlife and human health?
WOMEN IN ECOLOGY Project
We exist to empower women through inclusion, equity, and visibility.
Women in Ecology is a project dedicated to promoting and strengthening the presence of women in ecology, with special attention to the representation of historically underrepresented groups.
Through communication and scientific outreach, we seek to value women’s careers, research, and voices, building a more diverse, inclusive, and accessible science. We work as a network, encourage continuous learning, and uphold transparency, gender equity, and sustainability—always connecting science with society.
LATEST NEWS
Exciting News: ESA Excellence in Ecology (EEE) Scholarship Awarded by the Ecological Society of America (ESA) (2025-2027)
I am excited to share that I have been selected as part of the 2025 cohort of ESA Excellence in Ecology Scholars (EEE) by the Ecological Society of America (ESA). This prestigious scholarship recognizes and supports early - mid career ESA members who have achieved a PhD within the last 20 years.
I am deeply grateful to ESA for this scholarship. I look forward to continuing my work in disease ecology and contributing to the ESA community.
Exciting News: Outreach 2024 Grant Awarded by BES!
On November 20, 2024, I had the joy of being selected by the British Ecological Society (BES - @britishecolsoc) to receive an Outreach Grant! This funding will be used to develop a new activity within the Mulheres na Ecologia project: “Ecologia por Elas” podcast!
This recognition is incredibly special. It marks a significant step in increasing the visibility of Brazilian ecologists and strengthening the connection between science and society - not only in Brazil but also on an international level.
I’m bursting with ideas and excited to share everything with you soon! A huge thank you to everyone who believes in and supports my work!
Exciting News: Honorable Mention by ESA Disease ecology section!
In 2024, the Disease Ecology Section of the Ecological Society of America honored me with an Honorable Mention Award for Best Student Paper for my Ph.D. research publication in Systematic Biology. I am deeply grateful to the ESA Disease Ecology Section for this recognition, which provides valuable support for my work. I look forward to continuing my research in disease ecology.
Exciting News: Best Talk Award by ESA!
At the 109th Ecological Society of America Meeting, my presentation, “Host-switching events affect the evolution of the network of interactions” (COS 289-4), was recognized as the Best Talk by the ESA Latin America & the Caribbean Chapter, celebrating my scientific research.
I am deeply grateful to ESA LAC for this award, which provides valuable support for my research. I look forward to continuing my work in ecology.
