In a transformative leap for science and innovation in the Caribbean, the University of Puerto Rico Medical Sciences Campus (UPR-MSC) has been awarded an $11.3 million NIH-COBRE grant (National Institute General and Medical Sciences) to establish the Puerto Rico Center for Microbiome Sciences (PR-CMS)—the first of its kind in the region.
This milestone is spearheaded by Dr. Filipa Godoy-Vitorino, Chair of the Department of Microbiology and a recognized global leader in microbiome research, who also serves as the Applied Microbiology International’s Global Ambassador for the Americas.
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The PR-CMS will serve as a trailblazing hub for microbiome science, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, cutting-edge analytical capacity, and career development opportunities for researchers across Puerto Rico.
“This NIH-COBRE grant enables us to build a sustainable and collaborative platform for microbiome research in Puerto Rico,” said Dr. Godoy-Vitorino. “Our Center will drive scientific excellence while equipping the next generation of investigators with the tools they need to lead transformative microbiome research.”
Advancing microbiology
Dr. Godoy-Vitorino’s leadership at PR-CMS complements her longstanding efforts as AMI and ISME’s Global Ambassador, where she represents the Americas in advancing microbiology worldwide. Her vision extends beyond research—championing microbiome literacy, diversity in STEM, and international scientific exchange.
The PR-CMS will initially support three early-career scientists exploring how the microbiome influences sleep, aggression, oral cancer therapies, and epilepsy. These projects, led by Drs. Roberto Rodriguez, Stephanie Dorta, and Yancy Ferrer, respectively, reflect the Center’s commitment to health, innovation, and inclusivity. The initiative also offers significant hands-on training for undergraduate and graduate students—nurturing Puerto Rico’s next generation of scientific leaders.
With a dynamic leadership team including colleagues from the Anatomy and Neurobiology Department, backing a robust administrative and faculty development infrastructure, the PR-CMS is poised to become a regional and international powerhouse. As global awareness of the microbiome’s role in health, disease, and ecosystems grows, Puerto Rico is now firmly on the map with a bold commitment to discovery.
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