Dr. Natalie M. Meléndez Vázquez is a passionate microbiologist, educator, and mentor. Currently, she’s a postdoctoral fellow at the Center for Collaborative Research in Health Disparities at the University of Puerto Rico-Medical Sciences Campus, where she assesses the interplay between the cervicovaginal microbiota and metabolic profiles in women affected by cervical disease and HPV infections.

Dr. Meléndez Vázquez earned her Ph.D. in Microbiology from the University of Puerto Rico-Medical Sciences Campus, where she was recognized with multiple honors for academic excellence, leadership, and research. Her doctoral work focused on how the gut microbiota influences the effectiveness of oncolytic viruses for solid tumors. She has presented her research at national and international conferences and has published in high-impact journals. Natalie is an active mentor of high school, undergraduate, and postbacc students.

An advocate for science communication and mentorship, Natalie has served as councilor and chair of the Social Media Committee of the Puerto Rico Society of Microbiologists (PRSM), where she modernized the PRSM’s digital presence and secured vital resources like Canva Pro and Zoom Pro. She also led the development of two webinar series aimed at exploring the latest microbiology advances and professional development opportunities. In this upcoming term, with her appointment as President-Elect, Natalie is committed to fostering collaboration, enhancing member engagement, and strengthening connections with industry, student chapters, and regional partners—ensuring PRSM remains a dynamic force in Puerto Rican science. Dr. Meléndez Vázquez is eager to continue promoting a transparent environment while inspiring innovation and ensuring the PRSM remains a cornerstone for the students and professionals of Puerto Rico.

Email: natalie.melendez2@upr.edu and redes.smpr@gmail.com