Natasha de León Rodríguez

Co-Principal Investigator

I'm an Assistant Professor of Microbiology at Inter American University of Puerto Rico, Metro Campus (Inter Metro), and I lead the Microbial Ecology Lab, affectionately known as Lab 401, established in Spring 2021. Before diving into academia, I explored various roles with non-profits in informal STEM education and innovation and lent my expertise as a consultant.

Jumping back into academia after years off the field has been an absolute delight! There's nothing I enjoy more than mentoring students, helping navigate this exciting phase of their lives.

My current research explores how atmospheric events might affect atmospheric microorganisms and the spatial and temporal patterns of microbial communities in Fajardo's bioluminescent lagoon.

Beyond my campus duties, I serve on Casa Pueblo's Board of Directors—a grassroots organization in Adjuntas, Puerto Rico—and preside over the Caribbean Division of the American Association for the Advancement of Science.

With Navigating Home, I'm thrilled to mentor our Short-term fellows and am excited to continue supporting and guiding our fellows and students in the years to come.