What is your current position/role?
- Co-chair of the Virtual International Pediatric Pulmonologist Network- Pediatrics Assembly. American Thoracic Society
- Co-chair of the Global Lung Function Initiative "GLI"
- Founding President of the Latin American Society of Respiratory Physiology (SOLAFIRE)
- Founder of the Institute for Development and Innovation in Respiratory Physiology (INFIRE), Mexico City
- Deputy Director for Diagnostic Support Services. National Institute of Respriatory Diseases Ismael Cosío Villegas, Mexico City
- Elected President of the Mexican Society of Pneumology and Thoracic Surgery
- Member of the National System of Researchers Level 2
- Member of the Mexican Academy of Pediatrics
What is your educational background and/or training?
- Pediatric Pulmonologist and Respiratory Physiology
- PhD in Medical Sciences
- Master’s Degree in Medical Sciences
- Master’s Degree in the Administration of Health Care Institutions
- International Master in Project Management
What is your main area of interest professionally?
My main professional interest lies in pediatric respiratory physiology, with a particular focus on advancing lung function assessment and understanding respiratory physiology not just across childhood but to adulthood. I am committed to promoting and strengthening research in respiratory physiology, especially in underrepresented settings. I am also deeply invested in training and mentoring the next generation of clinicians and scientists to build capacity in this field.
How did you become involved in ATS, and what keeps you coming back to the annual ATS International Conference?
I became involved with the ATS as part of my long-standing interest in research and my belief in the value of learning from diverse scientific and clinical experiences. I had been attending international pediatric pulmonology meetings for some years, but a mentor —now also one of my closest friends— later encouraged me to engage with the ATS community specifically. What keeps me returning to the Annual ATS International Conference is the exceptional scientific environment, the opportunity to exchange ideas with colleagues from around the world, and the sense of community that continually inspires my work; moreover, the opportunity to meet and learn from the leaders in our field—those whose books, publications, and lifelong contributions have shaped our understanding of respiratory medicine. Being able to interact with the people who have inspired us through their work is truly motivating and enriching.
Any advice to give students, young clinicians, early career physician scientists or researchers who work in the field of pulmonary disease, critical illness, and sleep disorders?
My advice is to pursue the areas that genuinely inspire you. When you follow your passion, you remain motivated, curious, and committed to doing your best while sharing your knowledge with others. Never be afraid to ask questions, seek mentorship, and explore new ideas—growth in research and clinical practice comes from staying open and inquisitive. And above all, never forget who you are and where you come from; staying true to your roots provides purpose, grounding, and direction throughout your career.
My favorite: “… take your passion and make it happen…” (Irene Cara, What a feeling. Flashdance)