Juan R. Fernandez, BSc

University of Pittsburgh

Juan R. Fernandez is a research scientist in the Counter Disease Engineering Lab at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Department of Ophthalmology - UPMC Vision Institute. He received his Bachelor of Science in Biology from the University of Pittsburgh and under the direction of Or A. Shemesh, his current investigation explores the role of infectious agents in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases, with a focus on understanding how microbial factors may contribute to disease onset, development, and progression. His research investigates potential links and mechanisms by which microbial infections could trigger or accelerate neurodegeneration. His long-term goal is to provide insight into alternative causal pathways for neurodegenerative diseases beyond current traditional models and contribute to strategies for prevention/early intervention.