Degrees
Ph.D. Biomedical Sciences (Summer 2025)
B.S. Biotechnology (2020)
Research
Jose studies HIV infection, pathogenesis, treatment, and cure approaches.
Biography
A native Californian, José received his associate of science degree in 'Biological Technician' from Fullerton College before transferring to California State Polytechnic University, Pomona in 2017. After doing research in a stem cell lab and an immunoparasitology lab, he earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Biotechnology with a minor in Chemistry in 2020. José is now a PhD Candidate in the Microbiology and Molecular Genetics department in UC Irvine's School of Medicine studying HIV latency and persistence and cure approaches in the Marsden lab. José is passionate about community building and science communication in LGBTQ+ and other underrepresented communities. In his free time, he enjoys drinking strong coffee, going on walks and hikes, reading and drawing, and can be found at local breweries nearby bookstores with his partner.
Why is science communication important to you personally?
I think in general science is very interesting to folks but there is an issue with how accessible and digestible science is communicated. Even when it is communicated, there is usually a steep learning curve to understand how scientists and academics write, and this drives the disinterest and distrust in science. I believe that it is the responsibility of my fellow scientists and I to share our research to all audiences. This may also inspire young scientists from all backgrounds to pursue, or be engaged in scientific discoveries and build trust between scientists and the general public.