I possess broad experience as a microbiologist with expertise in bacterial genetics and clinical surveillance projects with emphasis in Gram-positive bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus and enterococci). I have served as Principal Investigator for several government-funded grants (subawards) in the last 8 years with work related to the understanding of the molecular basis of resistance in multiple pathogens. I have participated in projects related to antimicrobial resistance surveillance in S. aureus from bacteremia, in particular, as related to this project, coordinating the characterization of strains of S. aureus recovered in hospitals in 9 Latin American countries for 6 years. Working closely with Dr. Arias (PI of several proposals), I have contributed to the elucidation of novel mechanisms of resistance, understanding the cefazolin high inoculum effect in MSSA and developing a rapid test. I also worked to develop the framework to obtain epidemiological data on resistance profiles and genotypic characteristics of Gram-positive pathogens in hospitals in Colombia and Latin America. I have led several studies focused on the molecular epidemiology and population genetic structure of MRSA in Latin America, and I have contributed to the characterization of a novel strain of MRSA, designated USA300 Latin-American variant. I have had the opportunity to participate as Principal Investigator from South and Central America in a worldwide project of the Multidrug Resistant Organisms (MDRO) network by the NIH-funded Antibacterial Resistance Leadership Group, characterizing the genomic epidemiology of carbapenem-resistant Enterobacterales, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Acinetobacter. I also expanded my research interest to the study of bacterial compositions in the environment and the relationship with human health in a collaborative project with the Environmental Groups. Furthermore, I have participated and contributed in mentoring and promotion of predoctoral and postdoctoral trainees in Colombia.