Hello! I’m María Isabel,
a veterinarian passionate about "bridging the gap between knowledge and understanding"—bringing science closer to everyday life by creating practical connections that make a positive impact.
About me
My journey
Since I was a child, I’ve always felt a special connection with animals. I still remember the excitement with which I asked my parents to take me to see them and how I tried to convince them to bring one home.
That initial spark not only never faded but became the driving force of my life. Years later, I decided to study Veterinary Medicine, which allowed me to discover two of my greatest passions: exotic animals and the microscopic world. The latter, an invisible world to the naked eye, is full of microorganisms with strategies so ingenious that they could have come straight out of a science fiction novel. After finishing my degree, I took the next step and embarked on a PhD in Parasitology, a natural progression to dive deeper into this fascinating field. Over the next five years, as part of my dissertation and as a member of a Regional Entomological Surveillance Network, I alternated between the lab and fieldwork, travelling across Galicia (northwest Spain) to study mosquitoes, Culicoides, and sandflies. Since then, I have continued contributing to environmental health from a One Health approach, understanding the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health.
But, looking back on my career, I've come to one key realisation: the best ideas and discoveries don't really make a difference unless they're out there being seen. So, no matter what project I'm on, I make sure to share ideas and connect professionals so they reach the people who can really benefit from them. Knowledge shared is knowledge empowered, and it can truly transform things. To me, that's what it means to really contribute and make a lasting impact.
What guides me
My vision is to bridge the gap between scientific knowledge and everyday life, creating meaningful connections that empower people to take informed action.
As a veterinarian and lifelong learner, I aim to inspire positive change by making complex concepts accessible and relevant. I believe in the power of empathy, collaboration, and continuous growth to drive impactful solutions, not only for animal health but for broader global challenges. Through my work, I hope to contribute to a world where knowledge is shared, applied, and used to improve lives.
My values are the compass that guides every project I embark on.
What drives me
Passion for learning and curiosity drives my day-to-day, keeping me in a constant state of growth.
Coherence and integrity, a key principle for me, ensures that my actions align with my beliefs and goals.
Empathy, essential in my work, allows me to connect genuinely with others and understand their needs, enabling me to offer meaningful solutions.
Living in various countries has strengthened my cultural awareness, adaptability, and openness, allowing me to respect diverse perspectives and collaborate with people from all backgrounds.