C. Joaquin Cáceres. BSc, PhD (Principal Investigator)
I am an Assistant Professor in the VMPM department. I obtained my BSc from Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile and my PhD in Microbiology from Universidad de Chile in 2017, under the mentorship of Marcelo López-Lastra. My PhD focused on non-canonical mechanisms of mRNA translation used by retroviruses, hepatitis C, and hantaviruses. In 2018, I began my postdoc at the University of Georgia (UGA). In 2022, I was promoted to Assistant Research Scientist (non-tenure track faculty). My research at UGA focused on the influenza and SARS-CoV-2. Additionally, I participated in developing and testing novel vaccine platforms and antivirals. My current research focuses on the pathogenesis and viral-host interactions of influenza and coronaviruses relevant for animals and humans.
Nayrmaliz Marrero, B.S Microbiology, (Graduate Student Research Assistant)
I am pursuing a PhD in Microbiology with a focus on virology. I got my Bachelor’s degree in Microbiology at Iowa State University in 2025. Throughout my undergraduate program, I had multiple research opportunities, including work with bacteria, fungi, and viruses. My biggest interest is in molecular biology and genetics. After this program I’d like to become a physician and integrate research into my practice.
Luke Valerio-Garsow (Undergraduate Research Assistant)
I am a Junior majoring in Biology and minoring in Genetics. During my time on campus, I have held many roles, such as a teaching assistant for Principles of Genetics Lab (BIOL3130L), the Director of Leadership for the Inter-Residence Hall Association, a LAS Student Ambassador, and a Resident Assistant in Wallace Hall. I am currently on the pre-med track and am interested in a primary care specialty!
Serban Constantin Oancea (Undergraduate Research Assistant)
I am a Junior pursuing a bachelor’s degree in biomedical engineering and minoring in microbiology and chemistry at Iowa State University. Through my undergraduate coursework and my lab experience I have developed a strong interest in combining these fields to improve the quality of life. In the future I hope to pursue a masters degree to deepen my knowledge and understanding.
Violet Montgomery (Undergraduate Research Assistant)
I am a freshman pursuing a degree in Animal Science at Iowa State. I hope to attend veterinary school after graduation. Through my coursework at Iowa State, I have developed a strong interest in learning more about research and microbiology.
Tommy Nguyen, B.A Biology, DVM student (Veterinary Student Research Assistant)
Tommy Nguyen spent the summer of 2025 in the Caceres lab working on his project titled “Host range and binding profiles of Influenza A(H5N1) in livestock species”. He further plans to pursue veterinary medicine as a career and hopes to go into academia.