Héctor De Jesús-Cortés Ph.D., was born and raised in Bayamón, Puerto Rico, and has dedicated his career to leveraging science and entrepreneurship to drive innovation, empower communities, and promote social mobility. As a neuroscientist, educator, and advocate for STEM education, Héctor is committed to building a bridge between cutting-edge research and societal impact, inspiring the next generation of scientists and entrepreneurs.
Héctor’s academic journey began at the University of Puerto Rico-Río Piedras (UPRRP), where he earned a Bachelor of Science in biochemistry and molecular biology. His early research on Alzheimer’s disease sparked a passion for using science as a tool for discovery and community empowerment. While an undergraduate, Héctor also embraced science communication and public engagement, contributing to health outreach programs and podcasts. His dedication to excellence earned him prestigious accolades, including being named Best Undergraduate Researcher in Biology and receiving the NIH MARC scholarship.
He pursued his PhD in Neuroscience at UT Southwestern Medical Center, where he developed a small molecule to protect brain cells and published 11 scientific papers, seven as first author. His doctoral work demonstrated his ability to translate scientific discoveries into impactful applications. Héctor further expanded his expertise during a postdoctoral fellowship at MIT, where he explored memory manipulation using drugs and digital therapeutics. At MIT, he also held key leadership roles, including becoming the first Latino President of the Postdoctoral Association and co-founding the Sagrado-MIT Neuroscience Pre-College Program (SNPP) to inspire underrepresented youth to pursue careers in STEM. In 2023, Héctor returned to Puerto Rico as an Assistant Professor of Biology at UPRRP, driven by a mission to empower local talent and foster innovation. His work with InnovaSTEAM Puerto Rico has already created significant opportunities for students and researchers, including STEM immersion programs and mentorship initiatives that encourage innovation and entrepreneurship among underrepresented groups.
Looking ahead, Héctor co-founded BioGenesis Puerto Rico and envisions providing students, researchers, and professionals with access to the mentorship, resources, and state-of-the-art tools necessary to conduct high-impact research and develop solutions that address global challenges. Programs such as the Semester Immersion Program and the Summer Internship Program will focus on equipping participants to pursue advanced research, compete in science fairs, and explore commercialization opportunities.
Héctor’s unique blend of academic excellence, groundbreaking research, and visionary leadership makes him the ideal person to spearhead this initiative. His proven track record in fostering innovation, empowering communities, and bridging the gap between science and entrepreneurship sets the stage for BioGenesis Puerto Rico to become a transformative force in the region.
Héctor’s ultimate mission is to harness the power of science to drive social mobility and sustainable progress. By inspiring and empowering the next generation of Puerto Rican scientists and entrepreneurs, he aims to position Puerto Rico as a leader in bioscience innovation, shaping a brighter future for the island and beyond.
Cost-Free
