Mariangeliz Delgado Lopez
Hometown: Puerto Rico
Website:
Biography
Mariangeliz Delgado López is a student at the University of Puerto Rico at Humacao, where she is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Microbiology and is currently completing her second year. Raised in Las Piedras, Puerto Rico, she has shown a strong passion for science and environmental conservation from an early age. Her scientific journey began in 2017 when, as a fifth-grade student, she conducted a study on the effects of Hurricane Maria on red mangrove ecosystems in eastern Puerto Rico, focusing on Humacao, Ceiba and Fajardo, while also addressing environmental pollution.
Throughout her academic career, Mariangeliz has distinguished herself through excellence, curiosity and leadership. During her senior year, she worked under the mentorship of Dr. Kevin Alicea at the University of Puerto Rico at Humacao, continuing her research from a chemical and microbiological perspective. This collaboration earned her first place in the Environmental Sciences category at the Humacao Regional Science Fair.
Currently, her research focuses on evaluating the antitumoral effects of an endemic Puerto Rican tree on cancer cells to explore innovative therapeutic approaches, while also contributing to her project by developing programs to optimize laboratory analysis processes. She has participated in scientific workshops sponsored by Amgen, is an active member of the student organization MetLife through which she volunteered in Ecuador and belongs to the Honor Society at her university. Additionally, she volunteers with the Zoocriadero de Mariposas Alianza Verde, promoting biodiversity conservation.
Outside the lab, Mariangeliz enjoys reading, writing, gaming and listening to music, which help her stay creative and balanced. She hopes her journey inspires others to remain curious, pursue their passions and make a meaningful impact through dedication and purpose.
