Member Spotlight: Thatiane Amaral Russo, PhD

Name:

Title:

Postdoc

Year joined CDB:

2021

Describe your current research project.

I’m currently involved in two research projects focusing on HIV persistence and tissue-specific immune responses. One project investigates how HIV and cellular stress pathways impact the brain, aiming to understand the viral rebound and potential mechanisms of viral persistence in the central nervous system. The other project focuses on penile tissue—specifically the glans and foreskin—to study immune cell distribution and viral presence in circumcised and uncircumcised tissues, to understand how the medical male circumcision can reduce in 60% the HIV acquisition. These studies are crucial for identifying tissue-specific factors that influence viral latency and could inform strategies for HIV cure or prevention.

What motivated you to pursue a career in research?

I’ve always been driven by curiosity about how biological systems respond to disease. During my graduate training in Brazil, I was fortunate to work on both in vitro and in vivo models, which gave me a solid foundation in endothelial cells and cardiovascular diseases. Over time, I became passionate about translational research, especially in virology. That led me to pursue a postdoc in the U.S. focusing on HIV, where I could apply my background to address real-world questions with clinical relevance.

What advice would you give to younger research trainees?

Focus on the process, not just the results. Research can be unpredictable, so learning to enjoy problem-solving and being persistent is key. I also believe in building strong relationships with mentors and peers, it makes the journey more collaborative and rewarding.

What do you enjoy doing outside of your research?

I really enjoy going to the beach or going out to dance (salsa, bachata, gafieira…), it’s my way to reset mentally and physically. I also love watching TV series, and spending quality time with friends. Those moments away from the lab help me stay balanced and motivated.

If you could collaborate with any scientist, living or deceased, who would it be and why?

I would love to collaborate with Dr. Francoise Barré-Sinoussi, who co-discovered HIV. Her contributions to virology and her continued advocacy for HIV research and human rights are incredibly inspiring. I admire not only her scientific impact but also her commitment to global health and equity—values that really resonate with me.