Andrea Tabares-Brown
Combines computational predictions of RNA–protein structures with experimental studies of maternal gene expression in early zebrafish development to assess the physicochemical and structural properties .
About me
I am a Biological Engineer from the Universidad Nacional de Colombia with experience in computational biology, developmental biology, and infectious disease research. My work centers on understanding biological systems through the combined use of computational prediction and experimental validation, with a particular focus on physicochemical and structural properties.
I study RNA–protein interactions and maternal gene expression during early zebrafish development, integrating computational models with experimental approaches to better understand structure–function relationships. I also conduct computational research on infectious diseases such as Zika, chikungunya, dengue, and yellow fever, analyzing physicochemical properties to investigate virus–host interaction, infectious cycles, molecular mechanisms, and mutation-driven changes.
I contribute to both the technical and interpersonal dimensions of the lab environment by supporting the training of undergraduate students in laboratory research protocols and helping foster the development of practical experimental skills. In addition, I serve as the lab’s morale officer, organizing birthday and holiday celebrations, coordinating whiteboard decorations, and sharing weekly fun facts to help cultivate a welcoming, collaborative, and positive research environment.
I am motivated by interdisciplinary science that connects quantitative analysis with biologically and medically relevant questions. I value collaboration, scientific rigor, and clear communication across diverse teams and contexts, and I am fluent in Spanish, English, and French.
Outside of research, I am a certified scuba diver, an ocean enthusiast, and a lifelong animal lover. My favorite animal is the owl, and I share my home with Samantha, my cat, and Mermelada de Mora, my dog. I enjoy hiking, skiing, and Pilates.
A small personal irony: I have a goldfish tattoo, even though much of my research involves zebrafish.
*Andrea is the creator and primary curator of this website.
