“It is a positive experience when your contributions are acknowledged by authorities in the field. This demonstrates that, as an undergraduate student, one can make significant contributions to knowledge by working with patients, communities, and professors, supported by the academic and clinical training that characterizes the University of Cauca,” says the student researcher.

Currently, David López is in his fifth year of Medicine and is a member of the Center for Studies in Microbiology and Parasitology (CEMPA), a research group attached to the Department of Internal Medicine of the Faculty of Health Sciences. Part of his scientific work has focused on NTDs such as the taeniasis/cysticercosis complex, pediculosis, leishmaniasis, Chagas disease, and dengue.

CEMPA is directed by Professor Luis Reinel Vásquez Arteaga, and David López serves as coordinator of its student research group, which includes students of Medicine, Nursing, and Biology. His research has addressed neglected tropical diseases recognized by the World Health Organization as well as infectious diseases of national public health interest, including taeniasis/cysticercosis, pediculosis, leishmaniasis, malaria, dengue, hepatitis viruses, and topics in hematology.