Biology Graduate Student Spotlight: Manuela Montoya-Giraldo

Manuela Montoya-Giraldo

Biology Graduate Student Spotlight: Bridging Research and Entrepreneurship

The University at Albany’s Department of Biological Sciences is extremely proud to feature Manuela Montoya-Giraldo, a fourth-year Ph.D. candidate in UAlbany’s Department of Biological Sciences Molecular, Cellular, Developmental and Neural (MCDN) program.  She currently does research in the laboratory of Associate Professor Cheryl Andam and is also a member in UAlbany’s Spring 2026 RISE program.

Manuela was born and raised in Colombia, South America where she earned a BSc in Microbiology. Manuela worked as a researcher in marine microbiology for four years at the Marine Research Institute (INVEMAR) prior to joining UAlbany’s MCDN program. As a member of INVEMAR, Manuela studied how microorganisms from sea sediments in the Caribbean can be used to discover novel natural compounds. Manuela’s interest in combining molecular biology, microbiology, and bioinformatics led her to pursue a PhD at UAlbany where she continues to strengthen her academic and research skills while studying microbial populations, genomics, and phylogenetics in host–microbe communities. Since beginning her doctoral studies in 2022, Manuela has publications in journals such as Nature Communications, Communications Medicine, and Microbial Genomics, and a 2026 manuscript under review on Staphylococcus aureus. She has also received several honors that include the American Society for Microbiology Future Leaders Mentorship Fellowship (2025–2027), UAlbany’s Academic Leadership Award, and multiple awards for her research presentations.

In addition to her doctoral research, Manuela was selected this Spring to participate in the Research and Innovators Startup Exchange (RISE) program through the UAlbany Innovation Center located in ETEC. The RISE program brings researchers and students together to find ways to turn scientific discoveries into real-life applications.

As part of her Spring 2026 RISE program, Manuela is working with a team developing a device aimed at managing aquatic invasive species. Her role involves identifying market needs and working with researchers, stakeholders, and potential users to evaluate how a device can address real-world environmental challenges with possible solutions. The program will conclude with “Demo Day” where teams present their projects to stakeholders and community members on Monday, April 27 at 2:00 p.m. in the ETEC Building.

Below is an interview with Manuela discussing her research and participation in UAlbany’s RISE program.

Summarize the research that you are currently conducting.

Actinobacteria are a major source of antimicrobial and drug precursors, and one of the most studied genera in this group is Streptomyces. These bacteria have been the source of many clinically relevant antibiotics used in medicine, agriculture, and biotechnology. My research in the Andam Lab focuses on understanding Streptomyces diversity and biosynthetic potential when isolated from the skin and fur of insectivorous bats. I aim to uncover the genetic mechanisms that drive this diversity and to gain a better understanding of how interactions with bats in cave environments influence the discovery of new antimicrobial compounds.

Looking back, what motivated you to choose the Andam lab for your studies?

I began working on Actinobacteria from deep-sea sediments at INVEMAR in Colombia before joining the Andam lab. I developed a strong interest in Streptomyces species during that time. I found it exciting that the Andam Lab was studying Streptomyces from bats which offered me a unique and very interesting research opportunity. I first connected with the lab as a summer fellow in the 2021 Bioinformatics Fellowship offered by UAlbany’s RNA Institute. I applied to the graduate program following that experience and joined the lab where I now conduct my thesis research under Professor Andam’s guidance.

What motivated you to choose this specific topic for your research?

I have been interested in how organisms interact within ecosystems. I became very interested in studying microbes in relation to the organisms they live with. My curiosity about Streptomyces ultimately led me to this type of research and to join the Andam lab.

What advice would you give to students interested in pursuing research?

I would emphasize the importance of curiosity. I believe that taking time to ask questions and explore ideas can lead to meaningful discoveries. My advice to students seeking to enroll in research is to always find time to be curious.

What are your next steps?

I am interested in moving back to marine microbiology. I plan to focus on coral holobionts and integrate my training in molecular biology, bioinformatics, and microbiology. I hope to contribute to coral restoration and conservation efforts through this interdisciplinary approach.

What is the RISE program, and what drew you to apply?

I participated in the RISE program offered by the UAlbany Innovation Center which bridges research and entrepreneurship. I was drawn to the program because it provides hands-on experience in developing ideas into business concepts. I was particularly interested in exploring career paths beyond traditional academic and industry roles.

How did you first hear about the RISE program?

I first learned about RISE through a presentation by Program Director Kelly Reardon during an ABIO 650 seminar. I became interested in the program’s focus on customer discovery and real-world application of research. I followed up after the seminar to learn more and determine if the program aligned with my current and future goals.

What skills or experiences are you hoping to gain through RISE?

I hope to become more comfortable with business terminology and concepts. I am also interested in building an interdisciplinary skill set that connects science and entrepreneurship. I value the opportunity to develop a broader professional network through the program.

How does your research connect to entrepreneurship?

I am still exploring how my work on Streptomyces connects to entrepreneurship. I joined the RISE program in part to better understand this connection. I foresee this as an opportunity to expand the impact of my research beyond the lab.

Has this experience changed how you think about career paths?

The experience from RISE has broadened my perspective on career options. I now see opportunities to combine scientific research with free enterprise. I am particularly interested in applying this approach to conservation and ecosystem management.

What excites you most about participating in RISE?

I find it exciting to explore new career paths. I value the opportunity to expand possibilities for myself and other biology researchers. I am motivated by the potential to apply my training in new and impactful ways.

How will this experience shape your future goals?

I see the RISE experience as already shaping my future goals. I have gained hands-on experience with customer discovery, stakeholder engagement, and business development. I believe these experiences will influence both my academic and professional direction moving forward.

What advice would you give other students considering RISE?

I highly recommend reaching out to the Program Director Kelly Reardon and attending matchmaking events. I suggest exploring different roles within the program to find the best fit and that students participate as fellows, founders, or team leaders depending on their interests.

 

Manuela’s participation in the RISE program reflects UAlbany’s and the Department of Biological Sciences commitment as a Carnegie R1 institution in supporting research excellence, interdisciplinary training, innovation, and entrepreneurship.