What is your role at Pfizer?

I am a Principal Scientist at Pfizer La Jolla where I design, synthesize and characterize potential new drugs for biological testing.

When did you first realize you had a passion for science?
Growing up in El Salvador, many people used herbal remedies for ailments and I was fascinated by what made these cures work. I was curious about biology and forever playing with plants. I have a great respect for nature, as it is the number one designer of compounds.

Do you remember your fist science experiment?
Chemistry sets in the ‘70s were dangerous things. When I was nine years-old I caused an explosion that put a hole in our dining room ceiling. There were no experiments in my house after that.

Was your academic experience a better success?
It was more theoretical than hands-on. I attended university in El Salvador during the Salvadorian Civil War (1980-1992). During the turmoil, many universities closed and it was hard to find a place to study. I was fortunate to complete my education and go on to become a licensed pharmacist in El Salvador. After a short time in England (where I studied English) I received a scholarship to Rice University in Texas where I earned a masters degree in Organic Chemistry in 1993.

What is the most enjoyable part of your job?
I am a very creative person and always coming up with new ideas. At Pfizer, we have the tools and resources to make my ideas a reality. I am driven by my passion to find a cure for something. But the discovery process is long and can be frustrating.

What has been the highlight of your career?
I have contributed to candidate compounds to the HCV C Polymerase (antiviral) project, one of which is being actively evaluated in Phase Three trials. If a drug I worked on were to make it to market, it would be the greatest achievement I could even imagine.

What do you like most about being a Think Science Now (TSN) Member?
TSN provides a global platform by which I can share my passion for science. I enjoy the dynamic dialogue and collaboration and often post in Spanish to make the information more accessible to those in Latin America. TSN is like a big living room where we can come to brainstorm and share ideas. It is a great platform for collaborating and making connections outside of the lab.

What would colleagues be surprised to know about you?
I am an avid gardener and grow many plants through hydroponics (without soil). I enjoy the experimental apect of the process and have grown tomatoes plants that are seven feet tall.

Do you have words you live by?
“Al que madruga dios le ayuda” or the early bird gets the worm. I am in the office by 5am every day. The systems all seem to work faster at that time of day and I get home to spend quality time with my kids. We only have one life — and I have a lot I want to accomplish.

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