Principal Investigator

Welcome to our website! After earning my Master’s, PhD, and MBA, I conducted research at Georgetown University, the intramural NIAID/NIH, and the La Jolla Institute for Immunology. My vision for our lab is to foster a dynamic, energetic, and diverse environment where rigorous science thrives alongside a strong sense of community. While we are dedicated to producing high-quality data, I also believe in the importance of fully enjoying life beyond the lab. I’m passionate about outdoor adventures, and my favorite foods are coxinha, popcorn, dark chocolate, and guava!

Postdoctoral Researcher

Hi there! I completed my degrees at Fiocruz and the Federal University of Minas Gerais, with a period at the NIAID/NIH. Besides doing science, I spend a lot of time reading, writing, and doing some watercolor painting. I love being outdoors, and I have a soft spot for dogs. My main motto is social justice for all!

Associate Researcher (Coelho & Rodriguez labs)

Hey there! I’m an Associate Researcher in the Coelho and Rodriguez Labs at Mount Sinai. I earned my Master’s degree in Biotechnology from New York University, and I’m eager to learn how viruses work while strengthening my knowledge of immunology. Outside the lab, I enjoy playing football and chess, tweaking my fantasy league, watching movies with spicy chips, and devouring desserts. Tiramisu is my favorite!

Exchange PhD student (Unifal, Brazil)

Hey there! I'm a biologist with a degree from the Federal University of Alfenas and a Master's in Genetics from the University of São Paulo (USP), Ribeirão Preto campus. Beyond my passion for scientific research, I also value personal growth and enjoy practicing martial arts. I'm a big fan of nature and outdoor activities, so during the summer weekends you'll often find me kayaking on the lakes around the city or exploring mountain bike trails. I also never say no to a great conversation over a strong cup of coffee or even better, a delicious Italian meal paired with a good glass of wine.

Senior Scientist

Hi there! I’m a Senior Scientist with a background in virology and immunology. I earned my PhD in Microbiology from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG), Brazil, and later conducted postdoctoral research at the FDA and NIH/NIAID. My research has focused on emerging viral infections, including HIV, Zika, influenza, and poxviruses, with a particular interest in understanding antiviral immune responses and developing new strategies to prevent and treat viral diseases. In the Coelho Lab, I’m excited to return to my poxvirus roots and contribute to our work on mpox and other emerging poxviruses.

Outside the lab, I enjoy spending time with my family, playing soccer and tennis, going to the gym, and playing acoustic guitar. My idea of a perfect day is being at the beach with friends and family, making barbecue, drinking a cold beer, and enjoying good music and great conversation!

Mascot

Drakarys’ favorite pastime is lounging on the living room sofa, and her favorite treat is banana.

She also prefers Democracy to totalitarianism.