Raquel Almeida, postdoc associate in NeuroImmune Interactions Lab

Raquel Almeida, PhD, a postdoc researcher in the Neuroimmune Interactions Laboratory is from Brasilia, Brazil. Her research focuses on viral diseases and their impact on the central nervous system (CNS). Dr. Almeida completed her master's at the University of Brasilia (UNB), studying the effects of the T6SS from E. coli on immune response. She pursued the joint program between UNB and the Universite Laval in Quebec City, Canada to complete her PhD program, focused on the impact of Zika virus (ZIKV) on human physiology, immunology, and biochemical processes. 

Dr. Almeida's research investigates viral emergencies and their impact on human immunology. She has been driven to pursue this focus because of the suffering or loss people have felt due to the SARS-CoV2 pandemic, which she has personally experienced. She shares, "I want to understand the molecular mechanisms associated with viral infections, to contribute to global health and well-being in the community."

Outside the lab, Dr. Almeida enjoys CrossFit and hiking, especially if waterfalls are at the trail’s end.