Laura Vicente-Rodríguez earned her bachelor’s degree in Biology from the University of Puerto Rico at Cayey. She completed her doctoral degree at the School of Medicine, Medical Sciences Campus, in 2021. Her dissertation examined the role of the neuropeptide FMRFamide in inducing physiological changes in the intermediate host of Schistosoma mansoni.

She then pursued postdoctoral training in the laboratory of Dr. Demetrio Sierra-Mercado, where she investigated how traumatic brain injuries can lead to pathological or chronic pain states.

Dr. Vicente is currently an Assistant Professor in the Department of Biology at the University of Puerto Rico at Cayey, where she continues her research on traumatic brain injury and chronic pain. She is also actively involved in mentoring students as a mentor and co-mentor for Neuroboricuas, Tri-Beta, and Puerto Rico Pre-Dental Association.

Her motto, “to give back,” reflects her commitment to supporting others in achieving their goals while promoting greater representation of her community in STEM fields.