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Interview with Lara Visuña Pérez

Lara Visuña Pérez, Predoctoral researcher (UC3M)

What is your role in ERA4TB?
I am working on developing and training artificial intelligence (AI) tools based on deep learning, a branch of AI based on neural networks that simulate the human brain. The developed tools are focused mainly on image data, for example, microscopy images, providing a computational analysis of them. Some of the tools are focused on detecting bacteria, reporting their temporal dynamics, or evaluating their changes when we expose them to different conditions (such as a new drug). These tools support microbiologists’ decisions and analysis, contributing to the fight against tuberculosis, and facilitating the testing and evaluation of new drugs.

Which ERA4TB work packages do you work in?
Work Package 1 (Data & Pipeline Management)

How did you end up working in TB research?
I am a telecommunications engineer, I started my career outside of the research environment, however, I always felt attracted to research. The COVID-19 outbreak made me realize that there was an opportunity to make a difference by applying computational technology to speed up medical and clinical processes and support specialists’ decisions with AI tools. So, I decided to change my path and look for opportunities to apply my skills in AI and computer vision in the bioengineering areas. Finally, the UC3M and my thesis directors gave me the opportunity to work in TB research developing and evolving AI tools.

Are there many women working in your field of interest at the moment?
I am doing a Ph.D. in computer science, it is an area that traditionally (and nowadays) attracts more men than women. Nevertheless, even in this area is starting to change, and even though we are fewer women I have found wonderful intelligent women during my academic and research career.

Why is it important for women to be involved in TB or drug development research?
Research on TB and other diseases requires tons of intelligence, determination, and curiosity. The research career is hard but the development of drugs can save millions of lives, so we need as many passionate people as possible. A higher representation of women means a broader range of perspectives, more inclusive research, and a stronger fight against diseases that ultimately affect all of us.

What advice would you give to girls or women interested in a career in TB or drug development research?
Take every opportunity you can, join a lab, volunteer in research projects, take an internship, enroll in courses, and meet all the people you can, you never know where you can find a new opportunity.

The theme for International Women’s Day this year is #AccelerateAction – Advancing and celebrating women’s equality worldwide. If you had one wish, what would you like to see happening in the world to make this happen?
There are still many places where women have to work harder than men to receive the same recognition. I hope for an end to this bias, especially in research. No matter where you come from, if you are a researcher, you have to be unbiased to achieve fair conclusions. Science, medicine, and technology shape the future, and yet, too many brilliant and motivated women around the world never get the chance to contribute just because of social bias.

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