Natalia Rodriguez Rodriguez

Natalia is a first-year MD-PhD student originally from Colombia and raised in New Jersey. She graduated from Columbia University in 2021 with a major in Biology and concentration in Mathematics. During her time at Columbia, she was actively engaged in research and extracurriculars, including being a dedicated member of her college's Latin Dance Troupe.

Under the mentorship of Dr. Daniel Kalderon, Natalia conducted research on the role of the adhesion molecule E-cadherin in follicle stem cell migration using the Drosophila ovary as a model system. She also worked with Dr. Asja Radja, where she focused on the morphology of soft coral sea fans, contributing to a database and developing mathematical models of their complex branching networks.

After graduation, Natalia worked as a research associate in Dr. Talia Swartz's lab, investigating the mechanisms of chronic inflammation in HIV infection, specifically examining the role of purinergic receptors and inflammasome activation.

At Sinai, Natalia is eager to get involved in several organizations, including the MSTP admissions committee, medical specialty interest groups, and serving as a Spanish interpreter at EHHOP, the student-run clinic. Outside of her academic pursuits, Natalia enjoys spending time with her twin sister and exploring New York’s diverse food and coffee scene with friends.