Congratulations to Estefany Y. Reyes, PhD, who on March 25, 2025, successfully defended her dissertation, “Host cell responses in the brain during cryptococcal meningoencephalitis.” After graduation she will remain in the lab of Mari L. Shinohara, PhD, professor of integrative immunobiology, to follow up on some exciting projects that emerged from her graduate student research, she said. Long term, she aims to lead an independent research group investigating immune mechanisms in the brain that influence immune responses to infectious agents and autoimmunity.
One of the highlights of her time in the immunology PhD program has been the “lifelong friendships” she has built with collaborators. In addition, she learned to advocate for herself and gained confidence in “asking questions without fear, recognizing that seeking knowledge fosters deeper learning and stronger connections.”
“Scientifically, I honed my ability to think critically, apply rigorous methodologies, and expand my technical expertise, allowing me to contribute meaningfully as a collaborator,” Reyes said.
“Earning my PhD has been a tremendous effort that was made possible by the unwavering support of my husband, our two children, and many friends that continuously encouraged me and provided a sense of humor during difficult times,” she said.