Born in Venezuela, I have lived in Northern Ireland since 1993 when I moved in with my family.  I am a social researcher working at the Ulster University in Northern Ireland.  My research career spans from community-based research in the area of mental health to transdisciplinary research working in international research programmes. Currently, I live in Belfast and share my time with my son who lives in London and other relatives in Italy. 

I have an interest in transdisciplinary approaches, social innovation and social transformation.  Specifically, I am interested in transdisciplinary research  focused on addressing societal challenges in line with the principles of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).  Completed works include qualitative and quantitative studies in mental health settings, sociological autopsy studies of suicide (mixed methods), evaluation of assistive technology for people experiencing dementia and policy reviews.  Currently, I am working with an international, multidisciplinary research team addressing the challenge of safe water in developing countries.  This four-year project that commenced in 2017 is focused on the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goal 6 aimed at providing "access to water and sanitation for all."

As an experienced researcher, I am usually invited to deliver lectures to undergraduate and graduate students, both at Ulster University and Queen's University Belfast. I am keen to disseminate research findings in this way and share with these audiences the wealth of knowledge, experinece and skills acquired through my work in a wide range of research projects.