The scarcity of novel antibiotics has turned into a global health hazard. Every day, more drug resistant diseases are discovered yet no new treatments have been developed. Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is an example of a drug-resistant microbe that has taken the lives of a considerable amount of people all around the world since its discovery in 1947. In the midst of this alarming situation researchers have strived to come up with new antibiotics, but the race for life continues and only combined efforts will ensure the development of an effective solution. This is the reason why I fully accepted the research project proposed by my mentor, Dr. Carlos Ríos.

            Although I did not know my mentor until after being selected in the BioMINDS program, I have to say that I could not have chosen any better. Dr. Carlos Ríos is a humble and extremely dedicated professor, researcher, leader, and friend. He has put a lot of effort into the individual scientific growth of all of his graduate and undergraduate students alike. Furthermore, I appreciate the initiative BioMINDS has had and I also thank Amgen for funding the active participation of 200 students in total, along this journey for the progress and joy of life.