Growing up in Des Moines, IA, Bianca Flores was always fascinated by science and thinking about how it could be applied to the real world. That same curiosity would eventually lead her to pursue a PhD studying neuroscience at Vanderbilt University, offering her a window into how memories are formed and how connections between people are made. Her research continued at John Hopkins University, where she  completed a doctoral fellowship. Throughout her time in academia, Bianca was often keenly aware that she was one of the only Latina in her social and professional circles. As a result, she found herself drawn to groups like SACNAS (Society for Advancement of Chicanos/Hispanics and Native Americans in Science) and the NIH-IMSD (National Institutes of Health funded Initiative for Maximizing Student Development). Thanks to groups like these, she was able to discover the undeniable power of community and connection, bringing her research full circle. In hopes of sharing that same empowerment and understanding with others, Bianca is developing a start-up that aims to create community by connecting young Latine professionals through networking opportunities, dating and supporting local businesses. When she’s not building community and reading about neural pathways, you can find Bianca trying new restaurants, seeing live music, and spoiling all three of her canine companions/children. 

Corazon Sazon:

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Maverick Podcast: