Cisneros Lab Members

Principal Investigator

The overarching goal of the Cisneros Lab is to understand the mechanisms dictating interactions between the immune system and nervous system during substance use disorders and neuroinfectious diseases. Increasing evidence demonstrates that the immune system plays a critical role in both normal and pathological processes in the central nervous system. A particular interest is on immunocompetent cells of the CNS, including astrocytes and microglia, and their innate immune responses, both inflammatory and antiviral during substance use disorders and CNS viral infections. Using in vivo, ex vivo and in vitro models, we focus on neuroimmune interactions in addiction and viral-mediated neurodegeneration.

Chanida Fongsaran, PhD

Research Scientist

chfongsa@utmb.edu

I obtained my PhD degree in Molecular genetics and Genetic engineering from Mahidol University, Thailand. My research focuses on the pathogenesis of alpha encephalitis virus and coronavirus to the brain and related to neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease. When I’m not in the lab I love to spend time with my dog and go on camping trips.

Nicole Hausser, MS

Research Associate II

nlhausse@utmb.edu

Pathology Department
MS in Medical Entomology from Texas A&M University (TAMU)
BS in Biomedical Science, also from TAMU

Krit Jirakanwisal, PhD

Postdoctoral Fellow

krjiraka@utmb.edu

I did my PhD in Basic Medical Sciences with an emphasis on vector-borne diseases at the University of South Alabama College of Medicine. After completing my PhD, I joined the Cisneros lab in September 2022. My interests are broadly related to understanding the host immune responses to viral infections of the central nervous system (CNS). Outside of the lab, I enjoy eating, trying new restaurants, and exploring the city.

Camille Ledoux, BS

Human Pathophysiology & Translational Medicine PhD Student

cmledoux@utmb.edu

I graduated from Cornell University in 2020 with a Bachelor of Science in Biology & Society, and a minor in Infectious Disease Biology. I’m interested in public health & science communication and I’m training to be a scientist in order to be a better health policy maker. When not in the lab I can be found reading, sketching or spending time with my two Maine Coon cats.

Maura L. Ortiz-Camacho, MD

She/Her/Hers

Human Pathophysiology and Translational Medicine PhD student.

mlortiz@utmb.edu

I was raised in Tijuana, Mexico, where I attended Medical School at Xochicalco University. I did my medical internship and clinical rotations at the Tijuana General Hospital, where I solidified my theoretical knowledge with complete hands-on training. I completed my medical training with a year of social service in the Mexicali Valley; as a Lead Physician, I provided primary medical care to four rural communities with 3,000+ patients. During that time, I had the opportunity to witness many medical needs and gaps in treatment which is why after earning my M.D., I decided to join the research world to diversify my medical knowledge and acquire new skills. I’m proud to be part of this wonderful UTMB team and contribute to the diversity of culture and backgrounds that characterize this institution.

I enjoy swimming, paddle boarding, and having movie nights with my family during my free time.

Matt Weiser, MS

Research Associate I

mcweiser@utmb.edu

I studied Genetics for my Bachelor's and Biomedical Sciences for my Master's at Iowa State University, and completed my Master's thesis on the relationship between trauma, depression risk, and changes to the epigenome.

I'm originally from Iowa, and in my free time I like to play guitar and synthesizers, play Dungeons & Dragons, draw comics, and attend concerts! I've been floored by the welcoming community here in Galveston and the variety of live music available in both Galveston and Houston.