Dr. Yvonne Vallès is a passionate biologist deeply committed to understanding the intricate processes of life. Her academic journey began with a Master’s degree in Ecology and Systematics, focusing on species concepts and traditional taxonomy. She then pursued at the University of California, Berkeley, her Ph.D. followed by her first postdoctoral experience in genomics, phylogenetics, and embryomic development, which provided her with a robust foundation in the biological sciences. During her tenure as a postdoctoral researcher at CSIC in Spain and as a research scientist at New York University Abu Dhabi (NYUAD), she transitioned to studying the human microbiome, highlighting her keen interest in the intersection of biology and human health while broadening her research scope. To further her academic experience and career, Yvonne joined the University of the West Indies, Cave Hill Campus, as a lecturer in Genetics, where she fostered a culture of continuous teaching and learning. Currently, she serves as a Research Scientist and PHRC Lab Core Manager at the Public Health Research Center (PHRC) at NYUAD. In this role, she is committed to using her leadership skills to facilitate collaborative local, regional, and international research efforts, advance biological knowledge, and contribute to public health research.