The Lab
Heliconius. Genomics. Evolution. Biology.
My lab explores the genetic and epigenetic source of variation for natural selection and adaptation to work upon. I am interested in investigating what governs patterns diversity, what limits it, and what promotes its potentials. In order to do so, I combine methods of pure genetics, phylogenetics, epigenetics, single cell genomics, developmental cell biology, and functional genomics.
The Team
Get to know our lab members.
Riccardo Papa
Professor | Lab Director | Director of Sequencing and Genotyping Facility
I have been a faculty member at the University of Puerto Rico since 2010. The diversity and beauty found in nature first sparked my interest in biology as a student, which ultimately led me to studying Heliconius here in Puerto Rico. I am also the Director of the Sequencing and Genotyping Facility.
Learn more about Sequencing and Genotyping Facility
Silvia Planas
Lab Technician
Since 2016, I have been managing the UPR Sequencing and Genomics Facility. I enjoy implementing new genomic technologies while overseeing the Sanger and NGS sequencers, now housed at the Molecular Science Research Center. You'll often find me surrounded by plants—especially ferns—or exploring new places with my camera.
Elizabeth Evans
Lab Technician
I am a lab technician in charge of the butterfly rearing and CRISPR experiments. My life outside of the lab will remain a mystery.
Yadira Ortiz
Lab Manager
I am a lab technician in Riccardo's lab. I oversee the molecular equipment and experiments we conduct in the lab. Typically I will also manage the day to day problems that come up as well.
Nicolas Miranda Diaz
Ph.D. Student
I am a PhD student who is interested in understanding the protein mechanisms in butterfly wing color and eye development. In my spare time I like to fix up motorcycle engines and photography.
Samuele Broccardo
Ph.D. Student
I am a graduate biology student who is about to start my PhD on genomics and evolutionary biology. I utilize bioinformatic tools to analyze butterfly genomes. In my home town in Italy I liked to spend my time in the mountains, now in Puerto Rico you can find me at the beach.
Camila Sanchez
Postbaccalaureate
I am a postbac student at the Papa Lab, where I work on identifying the genes responsible for the color patterning in butterfly wings using molecular techniques. My research helps uncover the genetic basis of these beautiful and diverse wing patterns. When I’m not in the lab, you can usually find me hunting for the best shopping finds!
Florence Piel
Assistant Researcher
I am an assistant researcher and outreach media correspondent at the Papa Lab, where I combine my background in science and documentary filmmaking to explore and communicate research. Outside the lab, I enjoy surfing, hiking, and discovering new spots around the island.
Brenda Santiago
EPSCOR program manager
I am the administrator for the Papa Lab, managing funding, contracts, and research project coordination. I also handle communication between the lab and the university, ensuring everything runs smoothly. My role includes supporting grant applications, budgeting, and overall lab operations to help facilitate our research in evolutionary development